Here’s the latest on Canada–U.S. trade deal sentiment and polling.
- A May 2026 poll in Canada shows mixed feelings about a new trade deal with the United States, with a majority expressing caution about rushing to a quick agreement and a preference for a deal that protects Canadian interests. Public skepticism about U.S. compliance under a potential agreement remains a concern for many respondents.[1][3]
- In the U.S., sentiment is more nuanced and varies by respondent group. Some Americans view the Canada–U.S. trade relationship positively, while others are wary of concessions or broader tariff tensions affecting the deal’s viability.[2][5]
- Several outlets reported that Canadians have growing doubts about near-term breakthroughs, with polls suggesting that a sizable share do not expect a deal within the next six months and want a more comprehensive, durable agreement later.[4][8]
Key takeaways and quick context
- Canadian public opinion is skewing toward patience and pragmatism: prioritize a robust deal over a hurried one.[3][1]
- Confidence in U.S. adherence to terms remains mixed, influencing how Canadians evaluate concessions and timelines.[1][4]
- The political and tariff environment (steel, aluminum, autos, lumber) continues to shape both countries’ negotiation dynamics and public expectations.[5][1]
Illustration
- If you’d like, I can create a quick chart summarizing Canadian public opinion on “speed versus quality” of a new Canada–U.S. trade deal using the polling snapshots above and output a PNG for you.
Would you like me to compile a concise chart (and provide sourced citations) or dive into a brief synthesis of what each poll suggests for policymakers?
Sources
Almost two in five Canadians say recent court rulings in the U.S., and the ongoing legal battle over President Donald Trump's tariffs, have made them feel less confident in the future of trade relations, a new poll suggests.
www.ctvnews.caMost Americans — including Republicans — continue to view Canada positively in economic and trade matters even as U.S. President Donald Trump directs anger at their northern neighbour.
www.bnnbloomberg.caBy ANGUS REID INSTITUTE October 10, 2025 – New data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds that in contrast with U.S. President Donald Trump’s sentiment, that Canadians will be “very happy”…
armchairmayor.caCanadians have little faith a trade deal with the US will be reached in the next six months, after US President Donald Trump blew up talks over an anti-tariff ad campaign launched by the province of Ontario.
www.bloomberg.comOTTAWA — A new national poll finds that most Canadians see securing a new trade deal with the U.S. as crucial for domestic jobs and economic growth. The poll, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of the Montreal Economic Institute (MEI), shows that cross-border relations is a top-of-mind concern for Canadians, as the national economy falters under the weight of tariffs . … A formal review of Canada’s trilateral trade deal with the U.S. and Mexico is set for next summer. The Ipsos poll was conducted...
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abacusdata.caCanadians are split on whether a new trade deal with the United States should come quickly, and the canada us trade deal poll shows 66% do not trust Donald Trump to abide by one. Abacus Data shared the results exclusively with the Toronto Star, and the poll suggests many Canadians would rather wait …
www.el-balad.comOpposition to free trade is at a record high in Canada, and nearly twice as many Americans as Canadi
www.joc.com