B.C. Premier David Eby said Canada’s latest counter-tariffs on U.S. goods are “a good start,” but he said more non-tariff measures should be considered in response to the escalating trade war.
Federal ministers said Tuesday that, starting Sept. 8, Canada will impose tariffs on $27.6 billion in U.S. goods, matching U.S. tariffs. A $7.5-billion support package will also help Canadian businesses and workers affected by the trade war.
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said the measures respond to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on $27.6 billion in Canadian goods effective Aug. 22.
Eby said British Columbia is among the provinces that will be disproportionately affected by the U.S. tariffs.
“I was pleased to see the dollar-for-dollar tariff response because it will provide some level of protection for B.C. businesses and encourage Canadians to be our own best customers on these kinds of things,” said Eby.
But he said the federal government could go further to hit back at the U.S. economy. He suggested Canada reconsider its defence contracts with U.S. companies, including Ottawa’s multibillion-dollar plan to buy fighter jets from the U.S.
“Our partnership on key federal initiatives between countries should be part of this discussion,” he said.
Eby also suggested limiting U.S. access to B.C. thermal coal export terminals, noting the federal government has already committed to phasing out thermal coal exports by 2030.
He spoke Tuesday inside a BCLIQUOR store in Vancouver, highlighting the province’s decision to stop stocking American alcohol on store shelves after Trump ramped up his tariff threats last year.
“Again, I’m asking British Columbians, if you have a choice, please don’t travel to the United States. Choose another place to do your tourism. If you can choose a Canadian product instead of an American one, please choose it. Right now, Canadian workers from coast to coast to coast need our support,” he said.
