‘Tariffs, counter-tariffs harmful’ to Canada, U.S.: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith

On Wednesday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said the provincial government will work directly with small and medium-sized businesses and industry to understand the pressures faced by the federal government’s decision to match the United States tariffs dollar for dollar with counter tariffs on $27.6 billion in U.S. goods. 

“Tariffs and counter-tariffs are harmful to both countries involved. They disrupt businesses, threaten jobs, drive up inflation, decrease productivity, and strain relationships between allies,” Smith noted. 

This difficult moment, Smith explained, has created an opportunity to take action. “Although I understand the need to respond strongly to these tariffs, I can’t think of a more disastrous policy decision than cutting off or taxing Alberta’s oil to the United States. Doing so would absolutely devastate the Canadian economy.” 

The provincial government has implemented a cabinet committee and will be launching an online portal to allow businesses to share feedback about the challenges they’re facing due to tariffs. 

“So, we can ensure they’re receiving the supports they need,” Smith added. 

According to Smith, the provincial government will also be assembling a new business advisory committee. 

“And I’ll be talking with Prime Minister Carney about other ways we can export more Alberta oil and natural gas to eastern Canada,” Smith shared. 

“We must give our people and our businesses the resources they need to survive,” said Smith.  

The federal government’s counter-tariffs are scheduled to begin Sept. 8, according to Canada’s Department of Finance. 

According to Canada’s finance minister, the measures respond to the U.S. government’s decision to impose 50 per cent tariffs on $27.6 billion in Canadian goods on Aug. 22. 

With files from Stan Ashbee, Vista Radio Alberta.