76% of Canadians think country did ‘right thing’ by ending U.S. trade talks: poll

A recent Angus Reid Institute poll reveals that an overwhelming 76% of Canadians believe the country made the right decision by discontinuing trade negotiations with the United States, as the talks came to an abrupt halt. The survey further shows that 59% of Canadians feel that the government has little to no control over reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.

The study indicates that half (53%) of those who voted Conservative in the 2025 federal election agree that walking away from the talks was the right choice. Moreover, 69% of Liberal voters and 76% of NDP voters commend Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for showing strength by refusing to accept terms he deemed unfavorable to Canada.

Canada is set to impose dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs on the U.S. on September 8. These measures are anticipated to target various sectors, including dairy, steel, pulp, appliances, paper, and electronic goods. The specifics of the tariffs are yet to be disclosed.

Despite the impending U.S. President Donald Trump's threat of imposing additional tariffs on Canadian automotive parts and steel from January 1, 2027, 62% of surveyed Canadians view the counter-tariffs as "appropriate given the circumstances." Additionally, 64% of respondents believe that Canada will emerge from this challenging period stronger, owing to the reduction in its reliance on the United States.

The U.S. tariffs encompass numerous goods, such as sports equipment, plant seeds, and essential oils, among others. These 50% tariffs will impact approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian products, as stated by the Prime Minister's Office. Ninety percent of Canadians express concern that this escalation of trade conflicts could lead to inflation in the country. Moreover, 38% of respondents are "very concerned" that the trade war will negatively impact the Canadian economy.