With the looming threats of tariffs from the United States, the Saskatchewan NDP have begun an interactive campaign focusing on the local economy.
Carla Beck was in Saskatoon on Wednesday to launch the “Shop Local Shop Sask” campaign.
Part of the crusade is aimed at promoting businesses in the province and shopping more locally, Beck and the Sask. NDP have introduced a website www.shopsk.ca that will invite residents to submit their favourite businesses to be featured.
The website will also feature social media shareables and a petition to encourage shopping as Saskatchewan businesses.
"This is a call to action, and we know so many Saskatchewan people are already making a conscious effort to shop local, to support Saskatchewan and Canadian-based businesses and products,” Beck said in a release.
“Whether it’s families at their local grocery store or governments when it comes to public contracts and builds, it’s time to bet big on Saskatchewan and on Canada.
“For the Saskatchewan NDP, Canada is first and we will never be the 51st state.”
The Sask NDP said that with the possibility of tariffs being introduced next week by the United States, there has been a surge of patriotism with Canadians looking to respond with their wallets. They said 79% of Saskatchewan shoppers will look to replace products based in the United States with products from Canada.
“Saskatchewan people have always supported their neighbours – supported each other. It’s who we are,” Beck said. “We’re a province of innovators and entrepreneurs, always exceeding expectations.
“Let’s unite and make sure that our dollars are going to support and grow Saskatchewan’s businesses and economy.”
Beck announced the launch of the “Shop Local Shop Sask” campaign at SaskMade Marketplace in Saskatoon.