Smith says Trump tariffs will hurt Americans, Canadians

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is waiting for details, along with other stakeholders, before reacting to tariffs imposed on Canada by U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, said a spokesperson.

A 25% tariff on Canadian goods entering the U.S. will come into effect on Saturday. Copper, steel and aluminum are included. A 10% oil and gas tariff will be included on February 18, and "nothing can be done" Trump reportedly said on Friday.

"The premier has been clear from the start that any tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Canadian goods will hurt American and Canadian consumers, workers and businesses," said the spokesperson.

"That view has not changed.”

Analysts say the tariffs will force Canada into a recession. Smith has said Alberta oil and gas won't be used as bargaining chips in a potential trade war with the U.S.

In 2023, Alberta contributed approximately 87.4% of Canada's total crude oil exports to the U.S., with the country receiving about 97% of Canada's overall crude oil exports.

The total volume of Canadian crude oil exported to the U.S. reached a record high, averaging around 4.3 million barrels per day in mid-2024, largely driven by increased production and infrastructure expansions like the Trans Mountain pipeline.

This translates to an annual export volume of roughly 1.57 billion barrels, with Alberta's share being the vast majority due to its production capacity.

The U.S. relies heavily on this supply, as Canadian oil accounts for a significant portion of its total crude imports, particularly for refineries in the Midwest and Gulf Coast.

Smith published a video on Friday showing U.S. oil refineries that are dependent on Alberta crude oil.