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As the trade landscape shifts dramatically, Saskatchewan is stepping up its game. Premier Scott Moe recently returned from Washington D.C., where he engaged in crucial discussions with U.S. representatives regarding the province’s role in trade. With a 25 percent tariff on most Canadian goods set to take effect on March 4, the stakes have never been higher.
Proactive measures against tariffs
Upon his return, Moe emphasized the province’s commitment to mitigating the impact of these tariffs. “What we are doing as a province, and what we will continue to do for the foreseeable future, is to make every effort to head off any imposition, whether it’d be tariffs coming from President Trump and the United States or whether it’d be counter-tariffs from Canada,” he stated during a press conference.
This proactive stance highlights Saskatchewan’s determination to protect its economic interests amidst growing trade tensions.
Pipelines and pre-approval policies
In addition to addressing tariffs, Moe made headlines with his declaration that all pipeline permits in Saskatchewan would be considered “pre-approved.” This move aims to streamline the approval process for critical infrastructure, which Moe believes is essential for fostering trade.
“We encourage all provinces and the federal government to do the same,” he added, seeking to create a more favorable environment for trade-enabling infrastructure.
Political dynamics and the call for negotiation
However, the political landscape is complex. Opposition leader Carla Beck shares Moe’s vision for enhancing trade infrastructure but advocates for a more collaborative approach.
“It’s easy to put a tweet out, we’ve seen a lot of that,” Beck remarked, emphasizing the need for genuine dialogue. She believes that effective negotiation is crucial to overcoming the challenges posed by tariffs and ensuring that Saskatchewan’s interests are safeguarded.
As the province navigates these turbulent waters, the focus remains on fostering a collaborative environment that prioritizes negotiation over litigation. With tariffs looming, Saskatchewan’s strategy will be put to the test, but the commitment to proactive measures and infrastructure development signals a determined effort to secure the province’s economic future.
