US Canada Trade War
'short-sighted man' as U.S.-Canada trade war begins Author of the article: Christopher Connors Published Mar 04, 2025
Article by Cape Breton Post
In a statement, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, left, slammed the U.S. president, calling him a “short-sighted man who wields his power just for the sake of it, not having any consideration for the destructive impact of his decisions on both Canadians and Americans.” Submitted
The premier said American businesses can no longer bid on provincial business and that the province is actively seeking options to cancel existing contracts and reject bids outright until Trump removes his “illegal 25 per cent tariffs.”
The province also immediately doubled the tolls at the Cobequid Pass for commercial vehicles from the U.S. and directed the Nova Scotia Liquor Corp. to once again remove all alcohol from the U.S. from their shelves Tuesday.
“We know this was an effective response the first time and hurt American producers who rely on Canadian markets,” he said.
‘Incredibly difficult time’
Houston said the province will also take steps to support Nova Scotians through what he called an “incredibly difficult time,” noting that the 2025-26 budget contains a contingency fund to respond to U.S. tariffs.
“It is too early to determine exactly what specific funding is necessary, but we will communicate to Nova Scotians as we better understand the economic impacts and the federal government’s plans to support Nova Scotians,” he said.
The province also introduced legislation designed to break down barriers to interprovincial trade.
“We must be open for business in Canada. We hope all provinces and territories immediately endorse and pass corresponding legislation,” Houston said, adding that the province is also working on a plan to help businesses trade globally.
“I can tell you that we worked hard to avoid a repeat of Trump’s tax. We know tariffs are bad for people and businesses on both sides of the border,” he said.
“Unfortunately, some people need to touch the hot stove to learn, and while we cannot control or predict their behaviour, we can control how we respond.”
Buy Canadian
The premier also encouraged Nova Scotian consumers to buy provincially and Canadian-made products.
“I want to thank Nova Scotians who have already responded with your wallet. You’re choosing to be Nova Scotia loyal and support local and Canadian businesses. You’re choosing to travel in our beautiful province and country rather than south of the border. You’re cheering loudly and proudly for our Canadian teams and athletes,” he said.
“These choices and actions are significant. It is important that we stand together, united and strong.”