Carney on private vacation in Italy as Canada-U.S. trade talks reach critical stage

Prime Minister Mark Carney is spending a week in Italy on a private vacation as Canada-U.S. trade negotiations face a critical stage and U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods starting Aug. 19.

The Prime Minister’s Office said Carney will remain in Italy until Aug. 17 for private activities. The PMO said the trip received the required approval from the federal Ethics Commissioner in advance.

The vacation comes as Canada and the United States continue discussions over trade, with Trump threatening additional tariffs on Canadian products. The potential measures could have implications for Canadian businesses and the broader economy.

PMO deputy director of communications Audrey Champoux said Carney is receiving daily updates on issues facing the government and will remain in regular contact with his team and officials while on vacation.

Carney also spent time in the United Kingdom and Italy during a European trip in early March, including private vacation time, according to the PMO.