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Former Canadian top public servant Janice Charette has been appointed as Canada’s chief trade negotiator for the upcoming review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), a move that comes amid rising tensions in North American trade relations.
Canada’s former top public servant, Janice Charette, has been appointed as the country’s chief trade negotiator with the United States during the upcoming review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), according to an announcement by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office. Charette, a two-time Clerk of the Privy Council and former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, will play a central role in shaping Canada’s trade strategy during the crucial negotiations.
Her appointment comes ahead of the CUSMA review scheduled to begin by July, a period expected to be highly challenging due to ongoing trade disputes and tariffs imposed by the United States on key Canadian sectors. Charette will work closely with Canada’s new ambassador to Washington, Mark Wiseman, and will advise Prime Minister Carney and Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc on trade matters.
Prime Minister Carney stated that Charette’s role will be to advance Canadian interests and strengthen trade and investment relations between Canada and the United States, benefiting workers and industries in both countries. However, the appointment has drawn criticism from Canada’s Conservative Party, which argues that the government has failed to secure a trade deal despite prolonged negotiations.
The upcoming CUSMA review is expected to be complex, as U.S. President Donald Trump has adopted a hardline stance on tariffs and has suggested that withdrawing from the agreement remains an option. Canada is reportedly seeking a 16-year extension of the pact and aims to limit the scope of the review.
Charette brings extensive experience in public service and diplomacy, having previously served as Clerk of the Privy Council under two governments and as High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. She also played a significant role during the 2022 “Freedom Convoy” protests, when she recommended invoking the Emergencies Act to address the national crisis.
With sector-specific tariff negotiations expected to be incorporated into the broader CUSMA renewal talks, Charette’s leadership will be crucial in determining the future of Canada’s trade relationship with the United States and Mexico.
