Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has expressed full support for the Canadian government’s decision to withdraw from trade talks with the U.S. late on Friday. Kinew stated that all Canadian premiers stood behind Prime Minister Mark Carney following the breakdown of negotiations with the U.S. He emphasized his satisfaction with the prime minister’s choice to walk away from a potentially unfavorable deal.
As a result of the failed negotiations, 50% tariffs on nearly $30 billion worth of Canadian products were imposed early Saturday, affecting a diverse range of items such as honey, sports equipment, furniture, appliances, and wine. Kinew criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of these tariffs, describing it as unjust and urged Canadians to resist such actions.
In response to the tariffs, Prime Minister Carney announced that Canada would implement equivalent tariffs after Labor Day to safeguard local industries and enable them to compete with U.S. goods in the Canadian market. Carney cited the U.S.’s last-minute unfair proposals as the reason for discontinuing negotiations.
Kinew disclosed that discussions are underway with the provincial U.S. trade council to coordinate responses to the tariffs and pledged upcoming support for Manitoba businesses affected by the situation. He also expressed skepticism about engaging in further negotiations with the current U.S. administration, which he deemed flawed.
The Manitoba Chambers of Commerce president, Chuck Davidson, expressed disappointment over the trade agreement collapse and highlighted the importance of dismantling internal trade barriers to support local businesses during these challenging times. Kinew shared his commitment to leading efforts in promoting interprovincial trade cooperation.
Various provincial leaders, including those from Newfoundland and Labrador, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, endorsed Prime Minister Carney’s decision to halt trade talks with the U.S. Other premiers, such as Alberta’s Danielle Smith and Quebec’s Christine Fréchette, also voiced concerns about the impact of tariffs on their respective regions and pledged to work towards a resolution.
The federal government is expected to announce additional support measures for Canadians and businesses affected by the tariff situation in the upcoming week.