US trade officials have downplayed the dispute regarding the French language, stating that claims about its significance are fabricated. Canada’s chief trade negotiator, Dominic LeBlanc, expressed his approval of a shift in the US stance on the discoverability, labeling, and promotion of the French language and Canadian culture, indicating these would not be subject to US tariffs. LeBlanc shared his views in a post on X on Thursday, stating that Canada looks forward to further clarifications from the US that could lead to a mutually beneficial trade agreement.
Al Jazeera contacted the White House for comments, which referred to an interview with US Trade Representative Jamison Greer on CBC. Greer stated that French language discoverability on streaming services is not a priority for the US. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reiterated this sentiment during a news conference on Thursday, suggesting that the issue was not significant to the US. He described the claims as manufactured and referenced a post by President Trump on Truth Social labeling the claims as a complete lie.
These comments follow a series of retaliatory tariffs between the US and Canada. Canada announced tariffs on approximately $20 billion worth of US goods, with rates ranging from 15 to 50 percent, set to take effect on September 8. This action was in response to 50 percent tariffs imposed by the US on Canadian goods after negotiations stalled over the weekend.
US President Trump has increased his rhetoric against Canada, including an executive order to rename Lake Ontario to Lake America. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney remarked that US officials have made threats against the French language and Canadian culture, particularly concerning Quebec.
Canada's retaliatory tariffs will affect numerous consumer products, including ice skates, dishwashers, and construction materials. However, Ottawa has recently reduced some tariffs, including those on fish and seafood products. The Department of Finance stated that adjustments were made based on feedback to mitigate economic harm, particularly for industries targeted by US tariffs.