DOJ ordered to freeze antitrust work with Canada as trade tensions intensify

The U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust division was reportedly directed to halt cooperation with Canada due to intensifying trade disputes. While the DOJ stated that an order to “temporarily hold off on a scheduled meeting” was given, they disputed reports of a full freeze on all work. This development occurs amidst escalating trade tensions, including tariffs and President Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario to ‘Lake America.’

• A report indicated the U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust division was ordered to pause all work with Canada.
• The directive came amid an intensifying trade dispute and tariffs between the two nations.
• The DOJ disputed the report, stating the alleged broad directive was not given.
• The department clarified a specific meeting was temporarily held off for preparation.
• Tensions include tariffs on tens of billions of dollars in cross-border trade and President Trump’s executive order to rename Lake Ontario.