Sask. premier warns that Chinese tariffs on canola would be ruinous
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has strongly condemned the tariffs imposed by both the United States and China, warning of dire consequences for workers in the province. Speaking at the annual Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) conference in Saskatoon, Moe expressed his concerns about the impact of these tariffs on the canola industry in Saskatchewan.
Moe emphasized the devastating effects of a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese canola and meal exports, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the on and off again tariffs imposed by the United States on various products. He stated that these tariffs could decimate the canola industry in Saskatchewan within a matter of weeks.
The Chinese government recently announced retaliatory tariffs targeting Canadian goods, including canola, seafood, and pork, in response to Canada’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and aluminum and steel products. These tariffs are scheduled to take effect on March 20, just one day after the Saskatchewan budget is set to be introduced in the provincial legislature.
In addition to the Chinese tariffs, the United States has implemented 25 per cent tariffs on all imports of steel and aluminum, prompting Canada to announce retaliatory tariffs on $29.8 billion worth of American imports. These retaliatory measures include tariffs on steel, aluminum, and other goods, set to go into effect on Thursday.
Moe confirmed that Saskatchewan’s retaliatory measures, such as blocking the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority from purchasing U.S.-made alcohol and pausing government capital projects, will remain in place. He stressed the need for a calm and measured approach in the face of rapidly changing trade dynamics.
At a separate news conference in Regina, Saskatchewan NDP’s economy and jobs critic Aleana Young called on the government to prioritize Canadian steel manufacturers and stop using steel from outside of Canada. She emphasized the importance of supporting local steel workers and industries in Saskatchewan.
As more than half of Saskatchewan’s exports go to the United States, totaling about $26.7 billion in 2024, the impact of these tariffs on key industries such as crude oil, potash, canola oil, and uranium is significant. With Saskatchewan being home to a steel plant in Regina, the uncertainty surrounding trade relations with the U.S. has raised concerns among steelworkers and industry stakeholders.
In light of these challenges, stakeholders from finance, business, labor unions, and government agencies must come together to discuss the implications of these tariffs and find solutions to support Saskatchewan’s workers and industries. It is essential to prioritize the interests of Canadian workers and industries in the face of escalating trade tensions.
