In an unprecedented show of unity, all 13 Canadian premiers are in Washington D.C. to push back against President Donald Trump's 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum, as well as possible future tariffs on more Canadian products.
The delegation, led by Ontario Premier Doug Ford as chair of the Council of the Federation, met with U.S. Chamber of Commerce officials and lawmakers to warn that new duties would damage both nations economies.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she would highlight the "significant" role her province's energy exports play in supporting U.S. energy security, while emphasizing the need for enhanced border security measures to address drug trafficking concerns.
"It's important in the current economic environment that we engage with our counterparts in the United States to emphasize the shared benefit of trade between our two countries and turn the conversation toward building on those strengths rather than jeopardizing them with tariffs," said Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew echoed the sentiment of unity.
"Right now, unity is our strength and we're taking a Team Canada approach to our relationship with the Trump administration," said Kinew.
Trump signed executive orders on February 10 imposing a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the U.S., including Canadian products, starting on March 12.
The announcement came just one week after Trump had agreed to pause his plan for 25% tariffs on imports and a 10% tariff on Canadian energy.
The joint mission marks the first time all provincial and territorial leaders have travelled together to the American capital.
Their agenda includes meetings with Republican and Democratic members of Congress, labour representatives, and “bilateral” business advocates.
The premiers are focusing their message on the integrated nature of Canadian-American supply chains and manufacturing.
Manitoba recently announced plans to establish a permanent trade office in Washington to maintain ongoing diplomatic presence, reflecting growing provincial concerns about trade relations under Trump's presidency.
The high-stakes mission comes amid escalating trade tensions following Trump's return to the White House in January and his attempts to reshape global trade policy through executive orders.
