Experts say latest U.S. tariff threats could affect provinces unevenly

Economists say the latest U.S. tariff threats are expected to have different impacts across Canada, with Alberta and Saskatchewan among the least exposed provinces based on current export patterns.

University of Calgary economics professor Trevor Tombe said Alberta and Saskatchewan are each expected to see about one per cent of their total exports affected by the latest U.S. tariff list. According to Tombe, that is a lower level of exposure than many other provinces.

The Trump administration has cited Canadian restrictions on U.S. alcohol sales as one of the reasons for the proposed tariffs. Alberta and Saskatchewan are currently the only provinces that have lifted restrictions on the sale of U.S. alcohol.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said Friday that he and Ontario Premier Doug Ford agree on the need to support the federal negotiating team as it works toward a renewed trade agreement with the United States. Moe said the premiers may have different views on how negotiations should proceed but share the goal of reaching an agreement.