Premier David Eby has announced a series of measures to counter Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods and energy.
“The White House has launched a trade war we didn’t ask for, and we must respond with strength,” Eby said. “These tariffs are an unprecedented attack, and we are taking targeted action. In the coming weeks, we’ll introduce additional tools to combat this economic aggression.”
The B.C. government plans to introduce new legislation to provide new tools to defend jobs and businesses, the government said in a press release. Potential measures include removing interprovincial trade barriers, mandating that low-carbon fuel additives be sourced from Canada, and imposing tolls or fees on U.S. commercial vehicles using B.C. infrastructure to reach Alaska.
“Trump’s tariffs are a serious mistake, harming families on both sides of the border,” Eby said. “We are committed to standing up for British Columbians and will consider every option available.”
Initial Response Measures
As an immediate response, the B.C. Liquor Distribution Branch will halt purchases of American liquor from “red” states and remove those brands from public liquor store shelves. Additionally, the provincial government and Crown corporations have been directed to prioritize Canadian goods and services in procurement.
These actions align with a broader Team Canada strategy, which includes a federal 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. imports and additional countermeasures from other provinces and territories.
Long-Term Economic Strategy
Beyond direct tariff responses, B.C. is also implementing measures to strengthen its economy and reduce reliance on U.S. markets. The province is accelerating approvals and permits for major projects, with an initial investment of $20 billion expected to create 8,000 jobs, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Premier Eby has established a trade and economic security task force to coordinate efforts, bringing together business, labour, and Indigenous leaders. Additional initiatives include:
A task force on agriculture and the food economy to bolster B.C.’s food supply chain amid tariffs.
A softwood advisory council to develop diplomatic and trade strategies for the ongoing softwood lumber dispute.
A new cabinet committee to oversee the province’s whole-of-government response to the tariffs
Some sectors are more reliant on the U.S. for exports than others. For example, in 2024, B.C. exported approximately half of its natural gas and electricity and 74.8% of its softwood lumber to the U.S. For goods coming into B.C., U.S. imports make up 34.5% of total incoming trade, including machinery and equipment, agriculture and food, as well as energy products.
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