Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has urged the Canadian government to return to the negotiating table with the United States before facing counter-tariffs in two weeks. She expressed concerns that tariffs and counter-tariffs could intensify the ongoing trade dispute between the two countries. On Tuesday, the federal government announced plans to impose retaliatory tariffs starting September 8 on various U.S. exports, including steel, aluminum, smartphones, and golf clubs, while also introducing support measures for affected businesses.
Smith acknowledged Ottawa’s efforts to assist businesses and mentioned that her government is assessing the need for provincial relief measures. She emphasized the negative impacts of tariffs and counter-tariffs on costs, supply chains, businesses, and workers, urging the federal government to resume negotiations with the U.S. before the counter-tariffs go into effect.
The U.S. recently implemented tariffs following failed talks, leading to concerns from Alberta’s opposition and NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi. Nenshi urged the Alberta government to take a stronger stance against the new U.S. tariffs, suggesting reinstating a ban on American alcohol sales and reconsidering an upcoming referendum on Alberta’s status within Canada. Nenshi criticized Smith for potentially weakening Canada’s position in negotiations with the U.S. and for ruling out the use of tariffs on oil and gas exports.
In response to the opposition’s calls, Alberta’s Jobs, Economy, Trade, and Immigration Minister Joseph Schow warned against using oil and gas exports as leverage, citing the risk to jobs and the province’s economic dependence on the U.S. market. Smith’s press secretary defended the government’s approach, highlighting the importance of diplomatic relations with the U.S. and the citizen petitions supporting the referendum on Alberta’s independence.
