Canada's latest play in its trade fight with the US: it might join the EU as an 'associate' member

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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the inaugural Canada Investment Summit in Toronto on September 15, 2026.

Canada could become the European Union's first "associate member" as it looks to strengthen its international relationships amid escalating trade tensions with the US and President Donald Trump.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Wednesday that she wanted to "open the door" to the new arrangement, which is not currently defined in EU treaties.

"In short, we want to bring the relationship with Canada to the highest level possible," von der Leyen said.

The proposal would deepen cooperation on manufacturing, AI, critical minerals, energy, defense, and Arctic policy.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has sought closer ties with Europe after US-Canada trade talks collapsed last month, prompting retaliatory tariffs. Canada is not seeking full EU membership.

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

Thibault is a tech reporter at Business Insider's London office.He covers the intersection of technology and work — focusing on AI’s impact on the workplace, job and cognitive skills, and how economic changes are affecting careers.Before moving to the trending team, Thibault covered international affairs, including the Russia-Ukraine war, tensions in the South China Sea, and Russia’s economy on the news desk.He has previously worked at the Daily Express and held internships at Agence France-Presse, Politico Europe, and Factal.Il parle français. Habla español.Email Thibault at [email protected], connect with him on LinkedIn @ThibaultSpirlet, or follow him on X @ThibaultSpirlet and BlueSky @thibaultspirlet.bsky.social.Expertise