In reaction to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada will implement 25% tariffs on C$155 billion worth of U.S. goods. This move is intended to counteract the economic impact of the U.S. tariffs.
Premier Danielle Smith has expressed reservations about the federal government’s approach to these retaliatory measures. Following a First Ministers meeting in Ottawa, Smith declined to endorse a joint statement from other premiers and the Prime Minister, which advocated for a collaborative response to the U.S. tariffs. Smith emphasized that Alberta will not support any retaliation involving export tariffs on energy or other products, stating, “We will take whatever actions are needed to protect the livelihoods of Albertans from such destructive federal policies.”
Smith has also cautioned against blocking energy exports to the U.S. as a form of retaliation, describing it as an “empty threat” that could lead to a national unity crisis. She plans to travel to Washington for Trump’s inauguration and intends to visit the U.S. multiple times in the coming months to advocate against tariffs on Canadian products and to strengthen trade relations.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has called for a forceful response to the U.S. tariffs and suggested that Smith’s stance might play into Trump’s strategy of “divide and conquer.” Ford emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “Remember one thing, united we stand and divided we fall.”
As the situation develops, Alberta’s leadership remains focused on protecting the province’s economic interests, particularly in the energy sector, while navigating the complexities of international trade relations.
(1/2) I am disappointed with U.S. President Donald Trump’s @realDonaldTrump decision to place tariffs on all Canadian goods. This decision will harm Canadians and Americans alike, and strain the important relationship and alliance between our two nations.
— Danielle Smith (@ABDanielleSmith) February 1, 2025
Alberta will do… pic.twitter.com/2oUT0tO4kd
