As I write these words, we still do not know the results of negotiations concerning the latest draft of the North American Free Trade Agreement. It seems, however, that U.S. negotiators have targeted supply management, a dispute resolution mechanism, as well as cultural exemptions. If a compromise must be reached in these areas, Quebec will come out the loser.
When it suits him, Donald Trump is quick to contradict himself to win the bet. Consider the commercial politics imposed on his neighbors: tariffs on softwood lumber, acid, aluminum, imported vehicles and so forth. Don’t such protectionist measures aim to protect U.S. employment and economy from foreign competitors? Doesn’t supply management pursue the same objectives for Quebec? By seeking to protect milk, eggs and chicken from foreign adversaries, these sectors strive to maintain job security and safeguard the survival of their industries. If it’s good for Trump, it must be good for Quebecois dairy farmers and producers.
In this sparring match, Trump wishes to choose the opposing players, set the rules of the game, appoint the umpires and accuse the competition of cheating. In this climate of confusion and contradictions, doesn’t Trump risk falling prey to his own trap, his desire to win the advantage at all costs, in his judgment and in his behavior?
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