Days following the breakdown of trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. and the announcement of new tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump, Quebec provincial leaders are revealing their strategies to address the current economic climate in preparation for the upcoming provincial election later this year.
A fifty percent tariff on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods was imposed early Saturday after trade discussions between the two nations collapsed. Prime Minister Mark Carney, expressing dissatisfaction with the deal, announced retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. effective from September 8.
In response to the escalating trade tensions, Premier Christine Fréchette of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) commended Carney’s decision to halt the negotiations. The CAQ government introduced two initiatives over the weekend aimed at supporting businesses in the manufacturing and primary sectors affected by the tariffs.
During a joint event with Carney in Lévis, Que., Fréchette emphasized the importance of enhancing Quebec and Canada’s industrial capacity in an increasingly unstable world and affirmed her government’s stance against threats.
At a news conference, Ruba Ghazal, leader of Québec Solidaire (QS), proposed a three-part plan to address the economic crisis, including the establishment of a fund to anticipate future challenges and maintain employment in affected companies. QS also suggested raising Hydro-Québec tariffs as a pressure tactic and introducing a new economic agreement.
Charles Milliard, leader of the Liberal Party of Quebec (PLQ), highlighted his commitment to strengthening economic and political alliances with Canadian partners if elected. He stressed the significance of including energy in tariff discussions and leveraging Hydro-Québec’s resources for Quebec’s benefit.
Éric Duhaime, leader of the Conservative Party of Quebec (PCQ), presented an anti-tariff strategy focusing on maximizing natural resources like natural gas to achieve energy self-sufficiency. Duhaime also advocated for reducing interprovincial trade barriers to enhance economic cooperation among provinces.
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, leader of the Parti Québécois (PQ), did not hold a news conference by Monday afternoon, with no response from his representatives. Despite leading in polls, the PQ faces skepticism from Quebecers regarding their referendum promise. St-Pierre Plamondon indicated a plan to consult Quebecers on independence during his first term if elected, post-Trump’s presidency.
The upcoming provincial election in Quebec is poised to reflect the parties’ strategies in navigating the trade challenges amidst the ongoing economic uncertainties.
