Sask. budget contains no tariff contingencies in face of ‘erratic and unpredictable’ Trump presidency

Saskatchewan’s 2025-26 budget has been presented against a backdrop of uncertainty and unpredictability due to the ongoing threats of tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump. Finance Minister Jim Reiter highlighted the challenges posed by the tariff situation in his address to the provincial legislature, stating that the budget was being presented at a time of incredible uncertainty.

The budget, titled “Delivering for You,” emphasizes key priorities such as health, education, and public safety, echoing the themes frequently mentioned by Premier Scott Moe. Despite facing a razor-thin surplus of $12.1 million, the budget is projected to be balanced. However, the budget does not factor in the potential fallout from American or Chinese tariffs, including a 100 percent tariff on canola imports set to take effect soon.

Saskatchewan’s approach differs from that of Alberta and British Columbia, both of which included dedicated contingency funds in their recent budgets. Reiter explained that the fluidity of the tariff situation made it impossible to accurately predict the direct impacts on the budget. While the province conducted an analysis of the potential effects of U.S. tariffs, it remains challenging to anticipate the duration and severity of the tariffs.

The budget focuses on strong financial management and responsible spending to weather the impacts of tariffs. The government is banking on a positive financial outlook to navigate through the uncertainties caused by the tariff threats. Despite the lack of specific tariff contingencies in the budget, the province believes it has the financial flexibility to respond as necessary.

The budget includes increases in funding for key areas such as health care, education, and public safety. The Ministry of Health will receive a substantial boost of $485 million, aimed at improving access to primary health care and reducing surgical wait times. The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and the Saskatchewan Health Authority will also see increased funding to address critical healthcare needs.

In education, the budget provides additional funding for school operating and capital budgets, with a focus on addressing teacher salary obligations and improving literacy programs. The Ministry of Education will receive a total of $2.4 billion in funding, including investments in new schools and classroom facilities.

On the public safety and policing front, the budget allocates $798 million, with specific funding for the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency and the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General. The government remains committed to hiring 100 new municipal police officers and opening new bylaw courts to ease pressure on the court system.

While the budget received criticism from the Opposition NDP, citing a lack of planning and focus on key issues, the government defended its approach as aligned with the priorities identified by Saskatchewan residents. The budget aims to address critical needs in health care, education, and public safety while maintaining a balanced financial outlook in the face of uncertain tariff threats.