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Saskatchewan Premier Urges Targeted Approach to US Retaliatory Tariffs, Opposes Export Taxes as Rifts in Federal Government Deepen


Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe expresses support for targeted counter-tariffs in response to potential U.S. tariffs while strongly opposing retaliatory export taxes on Canadian goods. These remarks come amidst growing concerns from various premiers regarding the Canadian response to tariff threats.

Ottawa’s discussions on retaliation have escalated to include broader measures such as dollar-for-dollar counter-tariffs and export taxes, as stated by Moe during a press conference on Jan. 22, following a meeting between the premiers and the Prime Minister to address Canada’s response to U.S. tariff threats.

Moe emphasizes his disapproval of broad retaliatory measures, stating that they would negatively impact all of North America. Instead, he advocates for small, targeted counter-tariffs aimed at influencing American policymakers.

He elaborates, “We are against all export tariffs as they escalate tariff discussions. It is not in the best interest for the Canadian government to tax products that contribute to Canadian prosperity.”

Moe suggests exploring targeted initiatives with minimal impact on the overall economy and population.

U.S. President Donald Trump postponed imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Jan. 20, hinting at possible tariffs on Feb. 1. The initial tariff threats surfaced shortly after Trump’s election in November 2024, citing concerns about drug smuggling and illegal immigration at the U.S. border.

Alignment with Alberta’s Smith

Moe aligns with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on the adverse effects of export taxes on their provinces’ economies.

Smith strongly opposes retaliation, particularly export taxes on Canadian oil and gas, expressing concerns about the devastating impact on her province’s economy, heavily reliant on trade with the U.S. She advocates for a diplomatic approach, believing threats will not yield positive responses from the current U.S. administration.
Last week, Smith stood alone in refusing to endorse a joint statement by the Prime Minister and other premiers, citing reservations about energy export bans or tariffs being part of Canada’s response. She warned of necessary actions to safeguard Albertans’ livelihoods if Ottawa proceeds with such measures.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and some premiers, including Ontario’s Doug Ford, criticized Smith for prioritizing her province over national interests.

Moe pledges to collaborate with Ottawa but vows to defend Saskatchewan if export tariffs are enforced by the federal government.

Earlier that day, Quebec Premier François Legault rejected unilateral export bans or tariffs by Ottawa, emphasizing consensus among involved provinces for such measures.

Other premiers emerged from the Jan. 22 meeting in support of robust retaliatory actions. Ontario’s Ford underscored the need to reciprocate tariffs on a dollar-for-dollar basis to ensure equal repercussions for Americans and Canadians.



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