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Canada’s Inflation Climbs to 2.4% as Gas Prices Surge to Record High

  Canada’s inflation rate accelerated to 2.4% in March , up from 1.8% in February, as the Iran war triggered the largest monthly gasoline price increase on record . Statistics Canada reported that gas prices surged 21.2% month‑over‑month , a supply‑shock response to Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz and broader Middle East instability.  Energy costs were the dominant driver of March inflation, with overall energy prices rising 3.9% year‑over‑year after a sharp decline the month before. Excluding gasoline, inflation would have eased to 2.2% , highlighting how concentrated the price shock was.  Food inflation offered mixed relief: grocery prices rose 4.4% , while fresh vegetables jumped 7.8% due to difficult growing conditions. Restaurant inflation cooled sharply as last year’s tax‑holiday distortions fell out of the annual comparison.  Economists note that while headline inflation spiked, core measures remained relatively tame , giving the Bank of Canada ro...

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Ford Hails Progress in U.S.-Canada Trade Talks


Ontario Premier Doug Ford described his recent meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick as "very, very productive," signaling a potential thaw in the tense trade relations between Canada and the United States. The meeting, held in Washington, D.C., focused on addressing escalating tariffs and fostering a more collaborative economic relationship.

Ford expressed optimism, stating, "The temperature's coming down," and emphasized the importance of finding common ground for the benefit of both nations. While specific details of the discussions remain under wraps, the promise of continued dialogue next week suggests a commitment to resolving trade disputes amicably.

This meeting comes amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions, with both countries imposing tariffs on each other's goods. Ford's efforts to de-escalate the situation highlight the significance of diplomacy in navigating complex international trade dynamics.

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