Ed Fast

In this engaging discussion, Ed Fast, former Canadian minister of international trade, critiques the idea that China can be a path to Canadian prosperity, highlighting the dangers of economic incompatibility and coercion. He warns that renewed ties with Beijing might provoke U.S. backlash, jeopardizing North American integration. Additionally, Graeme Gordon, a senior editor at The Hub, reveals that nearly half of births in Ontario and B.C. are to foreign-born mothers, emphasizing immigration's crucial role in population growth amidst declining fertility rates.

Ed Fast, Former Minister of International Trade and a Distinguished Fellow at the MacDonald-Laurier Institute, discusses Canada's trade strategy in response to a call from Washington for a 'grander bargain'. He emphasizes the potential benefits of a comprehensive deal with the U.S., highlighting key areas like critical minerals and continental defense. Fast argues that this approach could provide Canada with greater leverage and stability for the future. Additionally, Howard Anglin explores the notion of political consensus using the metaphor of phantom islands, suggesting a need for policy reassessment.

Ed Fast, former Minister of International Trade in the Harper government, engages in a deep dive into the complexities of trade negotiations with the U.S. His insights highlight the unpredictable nature of the current administration's approach and its impacts on Canada. Fast discusses the challenges posed by CUSMA, including auto plant closures, and the urgent need for a robust framework to enhance trade relations. He also emphasizes opportunities for economic reform and modernization in Canada’s trade strategy, showcasing the importance of planning amid political fluctuations.