Meet the poker-faced top trade mind expected to lead Canada’s NAFTA negotiating team

Steve Verheul led the team that clinched Canada’s massive EU trade deal. The son of an Ontario dairy businessman, colleagues say he’s the quintessential trade diplomat: discreet, unflappable, and attuned to both political realities and technical details.

Colleagues describe Steve Verheul as a skilled, strategic mind who can defend Canada’s interests against Mexico and the United States after doing the same during a decade of trade talks with the European Union. The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia

News

BY SAMANTHA WRIGHT ALLEN

August 2, 2017

There’s a long-standing joke among those who know Steve Verheul: you don’t want to play poker with the guy. At the table, no matter the subject, Canada's former-CETA-now-expected-NAFTA chief negotiator doesn’t have a "tell."

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Today’s Headlines Newsletter

Your quick scan of the news you need each weekday to be the smartest person in the room.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy