Could Canada Join The EU? Canada-EU Membership Idea Gains Traction Amid US Trade Strains

The possibility of Canada joining the European Union appeared somewhat less far-fetched on Wednesday after an EU official did not rule out the possibility. Although long considered unrealistic in the past, the idea has gained support in recent times due to strained US-Canada relations under President Donald Trump’s trade policies.

The idea that Canada could join forces with the EU has been under informal discussion among analysts, especially as Trump’s threats and tariffs bring the two closer together. A poll Abacus Data commissioned in late February revealed that 44% of Canadians favored membership in the 27-member bloc, 34% were opposed, and the rest were undecided.

It’s not surprising, because the EU and Canada are like-minded partners who share many values and strong historical ties,” said European Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho when questioned about the results of the poll at a news conference.

Pressed on whether Canada could officially seek EU membership, Pinho cited the criteria spelled out in EU treaties but refused to do so directly. Under Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union, any “European state” committed to democratic principles, freedom, and equality can apply for membership. Still, what constitutes a “European” nation is unclear, and Canada’s suitability would be extremely contentious.

Canada already has a close trade relationship with the EU, its second-largest export market after the United States. But geographical distance is a major stumbling block. In 1987, Morocco’s application was rejected on the basis that it was not a European country, casting doubt on whether Canada would be eligible.

At the same time, Trump has already proposed that Canada might become the 51st US state. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, ruled out the possibility, saying that this would not be on the agenda at the next G7 summit in Quebec.