Statement from Currie Dixon on the Trump Tariffs

“Like all Yukoners, I have been watching with concern and frustration as the Trump administration contemplates unjustified tariffs against Canada. In the face of those threats, I supported the proposed retaliatory measures proposed by Canada.

“Premier Ranj Pillai briefed me on the Yukon government’s plans for potential retaliatory measures. I shared with him that while I have questions surrounding the implementation, I notionally support the need for the Yukon to act on the proposed first phase of measures, including liquor sales and procurement provisions.

“Thankfully, the Canadian government and the President have negotiated a 30-day delay to enable further discussions to avoid these tariffs and the inevitable economic consequences they would have. Federal, provincial, and territorial governments must take this time to evaluate options to de-escalate the situation, determine appropriate countermeasures, and discuss future steps to reduce our exposure to future economic threats, including the many barriers to inter-provincial trade.

“Despite being relieved at the pause, I remain concerned about the uncertainty caused by this episode and hope that it has invigorated in Yukoners a sense of urgency about protecting and enhancing our economy. Our economy must be prioritized, and steps must be taken to ensure that our businesses and workers are not so vulnerable.

Here in the Yukon, we must reduce the red tape and regulatory burden that has grown to impede our private sector and hold us back. We need to push back against interprovincial barriers to trade, like Canada’s outdated supply management system that drives up the cost of food and prevents Yukon businesses from accessing outside markets. We need to make our assessment and permitting regimes more efficient and clear so that major economic projects can advance and be successful.

“The Yukon’s response to the threat of a trade war can’t just be retaliatory – we must be proactive in strengthening and protecting our economy and making it as competitive and strong as possible.”


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