UPDATE: This story has been updated to reflect statements by the U.S. Government.
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Battlefords-Lloydminster MP Rosemarie Falk says tariffs by the U.S Government on Canadian steel would be a serious blow to Saskatchewan’s economy.
Trump says he will impose a 25 percent tariff on steel and 10 per cent on aluminum imports. According to the CBC however, the U.S. Government has decided to exempt Canada and Mexico from the fee for the time being, in order to foster further trade discussion surrounding NAFTA.
Falk says the 2018 budget does not reflect a plan if the steel tariffs are eventually imposed on Canada.
“What is more disappointing is that the Prime Minister has not provided Canadian steel and aluminum workers the confidence that he will take adequate action to protect Canadian trade interests.”
According to U.S. law, permanent tariffs can only be applied by Congress, but there is currently no indication as to how long the tariffs will be in effect.