Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey called Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s approach to potentially using the province's energy industry as a bargaining chip with Donald Trump “shortsighted,” suggesting it weakens Canada’s bargaining power.
The federal government is prepared to support provinces hurt by potential trade restrictions, including those exporting energy, as Trump takes office in a few days.
Smith, however, will not accept tariffs on oil and gas exports, despite Trump’s threat of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods.
“I do think it’s really shortsighted to begin negotiations with everything not on the table,” Furey told CTV News.
“We all export different goods and services, but as an energy exporter, I see the pain that can come. Yet taking tariffs off the table immediately reduces our negotiating strategy.”
Furey also stressed the importance of national unity during high-stakes trade talks.
“We’re in a very strong negotiating position as Canadians,” said Furey.
“We can’t be afraid to own that, but we also can’t be afraid to lean into it when negotiating against the strongest economic force in the world.”
Furey acknowledged tensions with federal policies, pointing to a billion-dollar offshore oil field in his province that Ottawa’s current minister of energy delayed.
Still, Furey said Smith’s opposition to energy export tariffs does not reject every part of the federal government’s plan.
Despite regional differences, Premiers across the country agree that a united front is essential when dealing with the U.S.