B.C. premier announces countermeasures against U.S. tariffs, including ban on ‘red-state’ liquor

B.C. Premier David Eby has announced immediate countermeasures in response to incoming U.S. tariffs, stating that the province will take action to protect B.C. workers and businesses. Eby criticized the tariffs as a betrayal of the long-standing relationship between Canada and the U.S., calling it an “unprecedented attack.”

At a news conference on Saturday, Eby revealed that he has directed the B.C. Liquor Distribution Branch to stop purchasing American liquor from Republican-led “red states” and remove the top-selling brands from public liquor store shelves. He had previously advocated for retaliatory tariffs and export bans, including an import ban on U.S. alcohol. Additionally, Eby directed the B.C. government and Crown corporations to prioritize purchasing Canadian goods and services over American ones.

These measures come in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive orders confirming a 25 per cent tariff on most Canadian imports, effective Tuesday, with a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy products. Eby expressed concerns about the impact of the tariffs on B.C.’s economy, particularly the forestry sector, which is already facing challenges with mill closures and job losses.

The long-promised measures could have a significant impact on B.C.’s economy, with projections showing potential losses of around $69 billion if the tariffs were to last until 2028. Eby emphasized the need to stand up for B.C. workers and businesses in the face of these trade barriers.

In addition to retaliatory measures, Eby announced plans to strengthen B.C.’s economy by reducing its reliance on external markets and diversifying trade partnerships. The province has identified 10 private-sector projects valued at $20 billion to expedite, including mines, renewable energy, and natural gas. Eby stated that the government is committed to fast-tracking approvals and permits to kickstart these projects.

Fiona Famulak, president and CEO of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce, praised the province’s approach as a step toward long-term economic resilience. She highlighted the importance of expanding international trade and reducing interprovincial trade barriers to support businesses in withstanding external pressures.

Eby also emphasized the need for international trade diversification, noting that approximately 54 per cent of B.C.’s exports go to the U.S. The province is exploring new trade missions overseas while collaborating with Canadian leaders to strengthen internal trade and economic cooperation.

Despite Trump citing British Columbia’s role in fentanyl production as a reason for the tariffs, Eby stressed that imposing tariffs on B.C. and Canada is not the solution. He called for collaborative efforts to address the issue and welcomed U.S. support in combating the flow of fentanyl, drug precursors, and organized crime from China and Mexico.

Eby is set to join a group of premiers visiting Washington, D.C. later this month to advocate against the tariffs, emphasizing the harmful impact they would have on both Americans and Canadians. The province remains committed to protecting B.C.’s economy and standing up for its workers and businesses in the face of these trade challenges.