Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette strongly criticized the recent imposition of tariffs by the United States on Monday.
Fréchette expressed her concern over the tariff threats before President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing 50% tariffs on certain Canadian products, further escalating trade tensions.
In a statement, Fréchette stated, “The new tariff threats from the Trump administration are unwarranted and troubling. The protection of our supply management system is non-negotiable, and we will defend it vigorously.”
These new tariffs are scheduled to take effect in 30 days and will impact a wide range of goods, including hockey sticks, wine, and cement.
A senior White House official, speaking anonymously, mentioned that these tariffs are in response to provincial bans on U.S. liquor, Canada’s dairy supply management system, and quotas on specific U.S. vehicles.
Fréchette expressed her intention to address this issue with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the upcoming annual Summer Meeting of Canadian Provincial and Territorial Premiers in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island.
“This is a crucial time for Quebec’s economy, and adding another layer of instability is detrimental when our businesses require predictability,” Fréchette emphasized.
Unlike previous tariffs, these new duties will not exempt goods compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico-Agreement, also known as CUSMA.
In response to the tariffs, Prime Minister Mark Carney reassured that Canada will take all necessary actions to bolster its domestic strength and support Canadian workers, farmers, businesses, and families.
Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet condemned the tariffs as “irrational and harmful aggression” by President Trump, stressing the need for measures to support Quebec’s economy.
The Conservative Party of Canada echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the unjustified impact of the new tariffs on Canadian businesses and workers and urging for their immediate suspension.
