Premier Moe says he’s optimistic about Canada-U.S. trade deal, positive steps made

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe expressed optimism about the potential Canada-U.S. trade deal, noting that recent decisions by U.S. President Donald Trump to avoid imposing 50% tariffs on certain Canadian goods is a positive development for his province.

Moe emphasized that the additional levies would have negatively impacted businesses and the overall economy. Canada and the United States have been engaged in negotiations for a possible trade agreement, which could potentially reduce existing tariffs on Canadian products such as steel, aluminum, lumber, and autos.

The premier expressed hope that the new agreement would result in smaller levies on these items. Moe cited the recent suspension of operations at a Saskatchewan sawmill as an example of the negative impact the tariffs have had on businesses.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has also urged provinces to allow U.S. liquor to be sold in stores, a measure that would not affect Saskatchewan as the province does not currently have a ban in place.

Moe reiterated the importance of securing preferred market access to the U.S., Canada's largest trading partner, stating that he believes they are in the process of achieving this goal. However, he acknowledged that the previous status quo under the Canada-United States-Mexico Free Trade Agreement is no longer possible. Moe emphasized that Canada aims to have the strongest trade agreement with the United States of America.