Canada

Premiers jump into the fight against Trump’s tariffs

Canada has swiftly responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose sweeping 25 per cent tariffs on most Canadian goods. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the country’s premiers have taken bold actions to counter these tariffs and protect Canadian interests.

Trudeau wasted no time in imposing counter-tariffs on $30 billion worth of American goods, with plans to add $125 billion more in three weeks’ time. He warned that more non-tariff measures would follow if Trump did not reverse course. The premiers of Canada’s provinces have also joined the fight, supporting the federal government’s actions and announcing their own retaliatory measures.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced that all U.S.-based companies would be banned from participating in government procurement, resulting in significant revenue losses for American businesses. He also terminated a nearly $100-million contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink and explored imposing a 25 per cent export tax on electricity sent to neighboring states. Ford emphasized the need to escalate the response, including surcharges on critical minerals and electricity exports.

Quebec Premier François Legault pledged up to $50 million in liquidity loans to help companies affected by the tariffs and urged Trump to reach a mutually beneficial trade deal with Canada. Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston implemented limits on provincial procurement for American businesses and increased tolls for U.S. commercial vehicles entering Canada. He also established a tariff contingency fund to assist those impacted by the levies.

Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey removed all U.S. alcohol products from provincial store shelves and vowed to stop all procurement from the U.S. The province is exploring new export markets and enhancing trade connections with Europe and other countries. New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt halted the purchase of U.S. products and invested $40 million in export-intensive companies to facilitate market diversification.

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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith condemned the tariffs as an unjustifiable economic attack on Canadians and pledged to announce Alberta’s response. She emphasized the need to remove provincial trade barriers, expedite infrastructure projects, and strengthen global trade ties. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew removed U.S. alcohol from Manitoba Liquor Marts and introduced tax deferrals for businesses affected by the tariffs.

The unified response from Canada’s federal government and provincial leaders demonstrates a strong stance against Trump’s protectionist trade policies. As the trade war escalates, Canadian officials are determined to defend their country’s interests and support affected industries. The coordinated efforts of all levels of government aim to mitigate the impact of the tariffs and safeguard Canada’s economic stability.

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