Houston says he “will not hesitate” to implement retaliatory tariffs against U.S.

CITYnews halifax / By Rachel Morgan

Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston says he “will not hesitate” to implement retaliatory measures against the United States if they again become needed.

The statement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump followed through on his threat to increase tariffs on Canada to 35 per cent after a deal was not reached with Ottawa by August 1.

The White House has said the tariffs will not affect goods compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement on trade, commonly known as CUSMA.

Earlier in the week, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Ottawa would only agree to a deal “if there’s one on the table that is in the best interests of Canadians.”

“As much as we all hoped Canada could reach a trade deal with the U.S. by August 1, we knew it would be incredibly difficult,” Premier Houston said in a statement. “Today, we are learning that we still have more work to do. We never wanted to be in this position. No one wanted tariffs. This has been a long and difficult road.”

Houston commended Prime Minister Carney and the federal government for working tirelessly on the file and for including the position of the provinces’ premiers.

“Our government will continue its part to support our province and the rest of Canada,” he said.

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That includes the potential for retaliatory tariffs. So far, the federal government has not announced additional measures, but Premier Houston says he will not hesitate, if necessary.

This is not the first time the Nova Scotia Premier has spoke out against the economic action for the south. When President Trump first announced his threat to impose the tariffs come August 1, Houston called the threat “foolish” and “childish”.

“This type of childish bullying is no way to treat a neighbour, friend and ally,” he said. “It’s exactly why Canadians are not buying U.S. products and cancelling trips to the U.S. And it’s why Nova Scotia’s measures around booze and procurement remain in place.”

Houston noted that although things remain chaotic in the trade war, he believes the silver lining is how united the country has been since the president upped his attacks.

“For now, we’re focusing on what we can control.,” he said. “Like building our economy. Becoming more self-reliant. Seizing the opportunities that are before us. Diversifying to new trade markets. Removing internal trade barriers. Supporting local Nova Scotians and Canadian businesses. And looking out for the best interests of Nova Scotians. I will always look out for the best interests of Nova Scotians.” We remain hopeful a deal can be reached.”