U.S.–Canada Trade Talks Halted Following Advertisement Dispute

October 24, 2025

Update 3:

Update 2: Mexican President Sheinbaum on US Ending Trade Talks with Canada: ‘We’re Going to Wait’

Update 1: Mark Carney responds after Trump ends trade talks with Canada over TV ads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9duZgCKkS6g

On October 23, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that he is terminating trade negotiations with Canada. The decision followed a television advertisement produced by the Ontario government referencing remarks made by former President Ronald Reagan on tariffs and free trade.

Details of the Advertisement

The ad, which aired nationally in Canada, features edited clips from President Reagan’s 1987 “Radio Address to the Nation on Free and Fair Trade.” President Trump described the ad as “false advertising,” accusing Canada of misrepresenting Reagan’s words to criticize his current tariff policies.

In response, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute confirmed that Ontario officials did not request permission to use the footage. The Foundation stated that the advertisement “misrepresents the context and content” of President Reagan’s remarks and noted that it is “reviewing legal options” regarding the unauthorized use.

You can listen President Reagan’s remarks here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5t5QK03KXPc&t=181s

Impact on Trade Discussions

President Trump’s announcement effectively halts ongoing discussions aimed at easing recent tariff measures between the two countries. While no new trade restrictions have been announced, the suspension underscores heightened tensions over U.S.–Canada trade relations, which have already been impacted by tariffs on steel, aluminum, and auto parts.

At this time, there has been no official notice from the U.S. Trade Representative or the Department of Commerce regarding further policy actions. Both governments are expected to issue additional statements in the coming days.

What This Could Mean

For now, this appears to be a temporary pause rather than a policy change. However, businesses engaged in U.S.–Canada trade may wish to remain attentive to potential updates or delays in bilateral negotiations.

J.O. Alvarez, Inc. will continue monitoring both formal and informal news and information outlets, including official government sources, to provide timely updates that may affect cross-border trade and compliance requirements.