Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has urged the Canadian government to resume negotiations with the United States before impending counter-tariffs come into effect in a fortnight. In a statement released online on Tuesday, Smith expressed concerns that tariffs and counter-tariffs could exacerbate the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries.
The federal government recently unveiled plans to impose retaliatory tariffs from September 8 on various American exports, encompassing steel, aluminum, as well as consumer goods like smartphones and golf equipment. Additionally, supportive measures have been outlined to assist businesses in coping with the trade dispute.
Smith acknowledged Ottawa’s efforts to aid businesses and indicated that her government is assessing the need for provincial support. She emphasized the negative impacts of tariffs, citing increased costs, disrupted supply chains, and the potential escalation to broader tariffs affecting more Canadians.
Highlighting the urgency, Smith urged the federal government to return to the negotiating table with the United States before the counter-tariffs become effective on September 8. Despite other provincial leaders endorsing Prime Minister Mark Carney’s counter-tariff strategy, Smith has stood firm in her position.
Meanwhile, Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi urged the Alberta government to take a stronger stance against new U.S. tariffs to demonstrate unity within Canada. The opposition suggested reinstating a ban on American alcohol sales and postponing an upcoming referendum, arguing that division weakens Canada’s negotiating position.
In response to the suggestion of using oil and gas exports as leverage in the trade dispute, Alberta’s Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration Minister Joseph Schow warned that such actions could jeopardize thousands of jobs. With a significant portion of Alberta’s exports directed to the U.S., Schow emphasized the importance of maintaining trade relations for the province’s economy.
Regarding calls to delay the referendum and restrict U.S. alcohol imports, the premier’s press secretary reiterated Smith’s commitment to diplomatic relations with the U.S. and the need to gauge public sentiment through the scheduled referendum.
As the trade tensions escalate, the focus remains on safeguarding Alberta’s economy and workforce amidst the uncertainties of the trade war.