BC promises pandemic-specific tariff relief, potentially offering loans and unemployment assistance
Premier David Eby emphasizes that safeguarding British Columbians from potential U.S. tariffs will be a top priority, akin to the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
He stresses that all decisions made by his ministers, including preparations for the upcoming budget, will consider the possibility of an extended trade conflict.
President Donald Trump has threatened to impose 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods starting February 1.
Eby outlines a relief package that may include pandemic-like “employment insurance,” grants, and loans to support businesses facing the impact of tariffs on B.C., which could be more severe than the 2008 recession.
Eby asserts that any harm suffered by British Columbians should be met with a corresponding response to the United States.
He expresses support for imposing matching tariffs on U.S. goods, with any funds collected utilized promptly to assist businesses in surviving and expanding their markets beyond the U.S.
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Eby affirms that the province is preparing for the worst while hoping for the best as it anticipates the exact nature of the U.S. tariffs.
