Canadians support for free trade with the US is growing, but many fear renegotiating with President Trump may leave Canada worse off.
According to a national survey conducted by INNOVATIVE Research Group from November 22 to December 3, 2024, while free trade remains broadly supported (56% in November, increased from 45% in June 2024), nearly half of Canadians (46%) worry re-negotiating it under Trump could leave Canada worse off, with an overwhelming 76% concerned about the possibility of increased tariffs.
Beyond trade, there is a strong consensus on key priorities, particularly on support to strengthen border security against criminals and terrorists (76%), measures against unfair competition from China (62%), and fence off northern border against threats from Russia and China (57%).
However, opinions are divided on opening up supply management sectors, exporting Canadian water resources, and whether to align Canadian climate actions with those of the U.S. Interestingly, support for exporting Canadian water to the U.S. is more likely to be higher among younger demographics with those 18-34 at 55%.
Canadians care deeply about the US Free Trade issue. Many Canadians agree with US concerns about security issues and the slow development of critical minerals. But while Canadians are willing to move on a number of US concerns, many draw the line at supply management and water exports.
Read the complete report on Canadian attitudes towards free trade with the US here!
This is the third post in our report exploring Canadian perspectives on the recent U.S. election. To learn more about which leader Canadians believe is better equipped to handle Canada-U.S. relations, click here.
To explore more insights into Canadian views on other U.S. issues, click here.
