Saskatchewan premier says no more American alcohol in response to U.S. tariffs
Moe also announced a temporary pause of capital projects to minimize U.S. materials
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has announced the province's response to U.S. President Donald Trump's tariffs, including a moratorium on American booze and efforts to minimize U.S. materials in infrastructure projects.
Moe made the announcement at a news conference on Wednesday, after criticism from the province's Opposition NDP that he was lagging behind other premiers in responding to the tariffs.
Moe said the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA), the main distributor of alcohol and sole licensing agent for the province's liquor stores, bars and restaurants, will stop buying U.S.-made alcohol and stop selling its existing stock to retailers. He said private businesses will still be allowed to sell their remaining American inventory.
He also said future government capital projects have been paused temporarily in an effort to minimize or eliminate their use of American materials.
"The goods and services that are procured by the Government of Saskatchewan ministries, as well as the Crown corporations, are going to make every effort to prioritize Canadian suppliers," he said.
On Tuesday, Trump implemented 10 per cent tariffs on Canadian oil and other energy exports headed to the U.S., and 25 per cent tariffs on all other products.
Moe said Saskatchewan's response is appropriate given the current political climate.
"Saskatchewan is one of the most diversified provinces and least dependent on the United States of America for our exports," Moe said. "That being said, they are our largest trading partner, our largest ally, and it's important for all of us to remember that as we go through what is admittedly a very challenging conversation with the president and his administration.
"We will find a way through it."
In response to the announcement, NDP Leader Carla Beck criticized Moe for how long it took him to make the announcement.
"The fact that he is the very last premier in this country to have come out and spoken to the people of his province has not gone unnoticed," Beck said. "This is weak leadership."
Beck stressed the importance of a united front to defend Saskatchewan's industries.
"We will continue to extend our willingness to Scott Moe and the Sask Party to be partners in navigating this difficult time, but you gotta get your elbows up," Beck said.
Earlier on Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump over the phone about lifting the tariffs. The conversation ended with both leaders agreeing to continue dialogue, though no concrete solution was reached. Trump did announce a one-month tariff exemption for automakers.
Meanwhile, Canada has implemented 25 per cent tariffs on $30 billion of goods coming in from the U.S., with plans another $125 billion to kick in later this month. Moe supported the federal government's approach Wednesday.
The Prime Minister's Office says that the counter tariffs will remain in place until the American tariffs are lifted.
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With files from Chris Edwards