Premiers slam 25% tariffs by U.S., announce countermeasures
Ottawa: Premiers have reacted sharply to the decision of the U.S. to move ahead with 25% tariffs on Canadian goods imported by their Southern neighbour. On Saturday, the U.S. informed Canada about this decision. Besides, the U.S. will impose a 10% tariff on Canadian energy.
BC Premier David Eby
David Eby released a video statement, criticizing the decision of the U.S. government. He said, “If America thinks tariffs will crush the resolve of Canadians – they’re wrong.”
“We will not roll over.”
Eby said “It is a declaration of economic war against a trusted ally and friend.”
Informing the retaliatory move, Eby said his province is stepping up to “do their part”. Eby announced pulling U.S. liquor off shelves and excluding U.S. products from government purchases.
“Today, we are at a crossroads. And, the journey ahead won’t be easy. But there is no place on earth I would rather be to face this threat than right here in British Columbia. We have everything we need to succeed. Abundant natural wealth, and clean, cheap energy. A diversified economy, and access to global markets. And our most resource of all: You, the people who call this beautiful place home. British Columbians are hardworking, highly skilled and resilient,” Eby said in the video message shared on his X account.
“Through this uncertainty, our government will be there to stand up for you and your family. As proud British Columbians and Canadians, we will meet this moment together and come out stronger on the other side. Together, we’ll fight not fold. Be resolute, not roll over. Because that’s just who we are. Here in the true north, strong and free,” he addressed British Columbians.
Ontario Premier Dough Ford
Doug Ford expressed his full support to the federal government in the wake of 25% tariffs by the U.S. on Canadian goods.
In his statement on X, Ford said, “As Premier of Ontario, the federal government has my full support for a strong and forceful response that matches U.S. tariffs dollar for dollar. Canada has so much of what America needs: high-grade nickel and other critical minerals, energy and electricity, uranium, potash, aluminum. We need to maximize our points of leverage and use them to maximum effect. The federal government needs to also pursue every legal route to challenge these unfair, unjustified and illegal tariffs.”
He expressed disappointment over the U.S. decision and accused President Donald Trump of walking away from a trading relationship that, according to him, improved life for workers in both countries.
“I wish we weren’t here. I wish Ontario and Canada were working together with our American friends and allies to make our two countries the richest, most successful, safest, most secure on the planet. Instead, President Trump has chosen to move forward with tariffs that will only hurt America and make Americans poorer. Canada now has no choice but to hit back and hit back hard,” Ford said.
Quebec Premier François Legault
In a video statement, he said the decision of the United States to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian goods would have a major impact on Quebec’s industries and could result in 100,000 job losses in the province.
“This is going to have a major impact on the Canadian economy. It could even change the face of the Canadian economy if it lasts for a while,” Legault said.
He also backed the federal government’s decision to impose tariffs on select American goods. “I have asked the Treasury Board to penalize U.S. companies bidding on public contracts. We must fight to protect our economy, to protect our jobs,” the Quebec Premier said.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith
In a statement on X, she also expressed disappointment over the U.S. decision of 25% tariffs on Canadian products and said it would harm Canadians and Americans alike.
However, she gave credit to her government for oil and gas being subject to a lower, 10% tariff.
“We note the reduced 10% tariff for Canadian energy which is partially a recognition of the advocacy undertaken by our Government and industry to the U.S. Administration pointing out the substantial wealth created in the U.S. by American companies and tens of thousands of American workers that upgrade and refine approximately $100 billion of Canadian crude into $300 billion of product sold all over the world by those same U.S. companies,” she said.
“Alberta will continue our diplomatic efforts in the United States to persuade the U.S. President, lawmakers, Administration officials and the American people to lift all tariffs on Canadian goods as soon as possible and to repair our relationship with the United States. I encourage all Premiers and federal officials to do the same, especially as the effects of these tariffs begin to take their toll south of the border. Americans need to understand the detrimental consequences of this policy decision,” she added.
In his statement, she said her province would also work in collaboration with the federal government and other provinces on a “proportionate” response to the imposed 25% tariffs by the U.S.
