Premier Scott Moe speaks on trade dispute, announces retaliatory tariffs on U.S. booze

Premier Scott Moe speaks on trade dispute, announces retaliatory tariffs on U.S. booze

Moe has expressed support for federal retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe has announced counter-tariffs on U.S. alcohol products, matching the U.S. tariffs of 50 per cent.

At a news conference in Prince Albert Wednesday, Moe said the counter-tariffs will take effect Sept. 8.

On Tuesday, Ottawa announced counter-tariffs on $27.6 billion of U.S. goods. It also unveiled $7.5 billion in support for workers and businesses.

Moe said the province supports the federal government's "focused and targeted approach in its counter-tariffs on U.S. imports," after trade negotiations fell apart over the weekend.

He said the U.S. was "encroaching on international trade agreements," and called that unacceptable. Moe said Saskatchewan has been working to build trade relationships outside of North America, and that those efforts have been successful.

The premier said the new counter-tariffs cover about $1.5 billion, or 11.3 per cent, of Saskatchewan's annual imports from the U.S. He said the province is analyzing the counter-tariff list closely and is working with "affected industries to determine its potential impact on jobs and consumer prices."

Sask. premier endorses Canadian counter-tariffs, says they will apply to 11% of province's U.S. imports

Moe said the province is also reviewing the federal government’s support measures to ensure they work for businesses and workers.

"While this is the appropriate response to the latest round of U.S. tariffs, we can never lose sight of the fact that all tariffs hurt businesses, jobs, consumers and families on both sides of the border, and our ultimate goal must be to get back to a free and fair trade relationship with the U.S., as we have enjoyed for many years," Moe said.

Laura is a journalist, radio host and newsreader at CBC Saskatchewan. She previously worked at CBC Vancouver, CBC Toronto and The Globe and Mail. She has also guest reported on the BBC World Service. Laura specializes in human interest, arts and health care coverage. She holds a Master of Journalism degree from the University of British Columbia. Send Laura news tips at laura.sciarpelletti@cbc.ca