Saskatchewan government has struck back at President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian goods by halting purchases of US alcohol and calling for a major shift in government and Crown corporations procurement policies.
On Wednesday, Premier Scott Moe announced the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) will no longer buy US produced alcohol.
The government will also review current capital projects, seeking to reduce or eliminate US materials and companies.
Contractors must now detail American product usage and find Canadian alternatives whenever possible.
"These extraordinary measures are a direct response to President Trump's unjustified tariffs and a direct attack on the Canadian economy," said Moe.
"This decision was not made lightly, but the Government of Saskatchewan has always and will always stand up for Saskatchewan's interests and protect our jobs, our economy, and our residents."
Liquor stores may still sell any existing US inventory, but new orders have been cancelled.
Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan will seek other sources for the $43 million worth of video lottery terminal and slot machine upgrades currently coming from US suppliers.
While stressing the value of the longstanding trade relationship with the US, Moe said Saskatchewan must protect its economy and jobs until tariffs are lifted.
"The United States has always been Saskatchewan's largest and most important trading partner, but when they attack our economy, we have to push back," said Moe.
"Our exports lower the cost of living for millions of Americans and support jobs on both sides of the border. Our goal is to end these tariffs and retaliatory measures as soon as possible so that we can resume our long standing, mutually beneficial relationship."
Sask NDP Leader Carla Beck argued Moe’s response was too slow and left local producers at risk.
Beck talked to one farmer who could lose $50,000 because of the tariffs.
“We need decisive action to immediately stop this damage,” Beck told reporters.
Beck also pushed for faster construction of trade-enabling infrastructure, such as pipelines and railways, calling for unity across Saskatchewan.
“We stand ready to work together,” said Beck.
“But we need real leadership right now.”