REGINA – Saskatchewan’s Opposition NDP wants to know why Premier Scott Moe’s government didn’t have a response ready — despite knowing for weeks that U.S. President Donald Trump planned to impose tariffs on Canadian goods.
“How is it that every other premier saw the tariff train rolling down the tracks, and yet our government is nowhere to be found?” NDP jobs and economy critic Aleana Young told reporters Wednesday.
“This is not a time for cowards. Saskatchewan cannot be last to the front lines of this fight, and yet here we are.”
Moe has said cabinet would meet Wednesday to discuss options, just one day after Trump levelled tariffs of 25 per cent on Canadian goods heading south, along with a 10 per cent levy on energy.
Moe was scheduled to make a statement Wednesday afternoon.
Young said it’s baffling that Moe’s government has nothing to offer while other provinces immediately stepped up with retaliatory action.
On social media Tuesday, Moe said Trump’s tariffs are unnecessary and will lead to steep “self-inflicted” price increases for goods and job losses on both sides of the border.
NDP Leader Carla Beck is calling for Saskatchewan to follow the lead of other provinces by pulling American liquor from store shelves and preparing to support workers and businesses in sectors likely to feel the brunt of the trade war.
“Saskatchewan jobs are on the line,” Beck said in a statement Wednesday. “The government needs to get back to work, put politics aside, and start acting like leaders.”
Moe is facing pressure to act from other premiers, as Ontario’s Doug Ford said Tuesday that Moe’s government should stop selling potash, uranium and oil to the United States and instead find different markets.
Moe hasn’t addressed the call but said American farmers rely on Saskatchewan’s potash and that the tariffs will only make it more expensive, which will make groceries south of the border more expensive.
Moe said the government will work to expand trade opportunities with other countries and within Canada.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2025.
