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British Columbia Premier David Eby is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to consider retaliation against the United States that goes beyond tariffs as the latest Canada-U.S. trade dispute intensifies.
Speaking at a press conference in Vancouver on Tuesday, Eby said Ottawa’s response following the collapse of trade talks has been proportionate and could provide some protection for Canadian businesses. He also described federal support for workers affected by the latest U.S. tariffs as a “good start,” while arguing that more measures should be considered.
One proposal involves Canada’s planned purchase of F-35 fighter jets from the United States. Eby questioned whether Ottawa should proceed with the roughly $12-billion spending commitment while the U.S. is imposing steep tariffs on Canadian goods. Canada has committed to acquiring 88 F-35 aircraft, although the federal government is reviewing aspects of the procurement.
Eby also called for Ottawa to examine U.S. thermal coal shipments moving through the Westshore coal terminal in Delta, B.C. The coal, sourced from the Powder River Basin in Montana and Wyoming, is transported through British Columbia before being shipped to Asian markets for electricity generation and industrial use.
The proposal could have consequences for Canadian workers. Energy and mining experts cited in the report noted that restricting or taxing the coal trade could affect employees at the terminal and the railways involved in transporting the shipments.
Canada is preparing its own new counter-tariffs after the United States imposed 50% tariffs on about $28 billion worth of Canadian goods. Ottawa’s measures will cover nearly 900 U.S. items, with tariffs of 15%, 25% or 50%, depending on the product. They are scheduled to take effect September 8.
Eby said B.C. also plans to provide Ottawa with a broader list of potential measures. However, no decision has been announced to cancel the F-35 purchase or restrict U.S. coal exports through B.C.
The developments show that Canada’s response to the U.S. trade measures could extend beyond tariffs as federal and provincial leaders consider additional economic options.
