Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says his government will take direct action to oppose proposed 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian exports to the United States, which he warns would harm Saskatchewan’s export-reliant economy and increase costs on both sides of the border.
"The Saskatchewan government is engaging with the incoming U.S. administration and working alongside Canada’s premiers and the federal government to ensure these tariffs do not come into effect," Moe stated on social media Tuesday.
The proposed tariffs were announced Monday by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who, on his Truth Social platform, said he plans to issue an executive order imposing the tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico. Trump said the tariffs would remain until both countries take action to stop the flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl, and illegal migrants into the U.S.
Moe acknowledged concerns about border security but criticized the proposed tariffs as counterproductive. "As Canadians, we can all benefit from additional border security to stop the flow of illegal drugs and migrants," he said, adding that his government would advocate for Saskatchewan’s interests both independently and in collaboration with the federal government and other premiers.
Speaking to CTV, Moe highlighted Saskatchewan’s strong economic ties with the U.S. "We have a strong relationship with many individuals appointed by President Trump’s administration," he said, emphasizing the importance of those connections in advocating for Saskatchewan’s export-based industries.
In 2023, Saskatchewan exported $26.9 billion worth of goods to the U.S., down slightly from a record $29.3 billion in 2022. Top exports include crude oil, potash, and canola.
National and Provincial Response
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has called an emergency meeting with Canada’s premiers to discuss a unified response to the proposed tariffs.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also weighed in, urging the federal government to address U.S. concerns about illegal activities at the border. "The vast majority of Alberta’s energy exports are delivered through secure pipelines, which do not contribute to these issues," Smith said, calling the tariffs "unnecessary." Alberta’s trade with the U.S. totalled $188 billion in 2023, with energy products accounting for over 80 per cent of that amount.
Moe stressed that Saskatchewan would continue to advocate for fair trade policies and protect its economic interests amid ongoing discussions with the U.S. administration.