Trump's tariff threats spark calls for federal action as premiers defend Canada's forestry sector
Quebec Premier François Legault has raised concerns about the potential effects of a proposed tariff by US president-elect Donald Trump on the province’s forest industry, reports BNN Bloomberg.
Legault, in a statement shared on Sunday, highlighted that high interest rates and existing duties on softwood lumber already challenge the sector, which supports over 50,000 jobs in Quebec.
“It will be important to protect our economy and our businesses in the coming months, and we are already working on our strategy with the relevant ministers within the government,” he wrote in French.
Legault expressed admiration for forestry workers, noting their contributions across logging, transportation, sawmills, and reforestation.
British Columbia Premier David Eby echoed Legault’s concerns last week, describing the proposed 25 percent tariff on Canadian goods as “devastating” for BC’s forest and lumber industry.
“It’s going to result in more expensive wood for building homes and building things in the United States. (It) doesn’t make any sense,” Eby stated, calling the tariff “unjustified” and harmful to both Canadians and Americans.
Trump has linked the proposed tariff to demands for Canada and Mexico to address illegal border crossings and drug trafficking.
The announcement follows the US decision last August to nearly double duties on Canadian softwood lumber imports to 14.5 percent, part of a longstanding trade dispute.
Legault noted that Quebec’s forestry sector was already grappling with US tariffs before Trump’s latest announcement.
“Even before Trump’s announcement, we were working to support a Quebec industry that is already affected by tariffs in the United States: the forestry industry,” Legault said.
He added that the federal government must act swiftly to resolve the trade conflict, as the economy of several regions in Quebec is at risk.
The Quebec premier also called on Ottawa last week to develop a detailed strategy to secure the border and prevent the imposition of the tariff.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre joined these demands on Sunday, urging the federal government to present a comprehensive border security plan to Parliament.
Poilievre called for enhanced patrols and advanced technology to address illegal drug trafficking.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently discussed the matter with Trump during a dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Trump later described the meeting as “very productive,” though no specific agreements were disclosed.
