After President Trump unveiled trade deals Tuesday with Japan and the Philippines, and his administration fleshed out details of a [pact with Indonesia](

Canada's International Trade Minister said on Thursday that there was interest from both sides to advance trade talks with South American bloc Mercosur, as Ottawa seeks new deals in a push to diversify from the U.

President Donald Trump announced new trade deals with Japan and the Philippines this week, bringing the total number of deals to five. However, several major trading partners still haven’t reached trade agreements with the U.S. ahead of the Aug. 1 deadlines.

Tariff negotiations between the two top trading partners are on a different track from those the U.S. is pursuing with other nations. But Canada may not get a better outcome.

The trade group representing the traditional Big Three US automakers is objecting to the US agreement with Japan, saying it would be unfair to American automakers and parts suppliers.

The spirits industry says the sales of American-made products dropped 66 per cent in March and April after several provinces pulled their goods from store shelves.

Canadian EV advocates are pushing to ease tariffs and allow Chinese electric cars into the country, arguing they’re safe and would lower vehicle prices.

President Donald Trump’s tariffs could have an unintended side effect: making homeownership even less affordable for many Americans.