N.B. Premier Susan Holt ready to help Ottawa hit back the U.S. ‘where it hurts’

New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt is ready to collaborate with Prime Minister Mark Carney to retaliate against the U.S. following the breakdown of Canada-U.S. trade talks. Holt stated that her government aims to hit the U.S. where it hurts while minimizing the impact on New Brunswick and the nation. Canada plans to impose dollar-for-dollar tariffs in response to the U.S. increasing duties on $28 billion worth of Canadian products by 50%.

These retaliatory tariffs are set to commence next month, affecting approximately $112 million worth of New Brunswick exports, roughly 0.8% of the province's total exports to the U.S. The premier emphasized that New Brunswick's energy exports, which supply electricity to northern Maine hospitals and public services, would be a significant tool not to be used lightly.

Holt also highlighted that the province currently reduces its procurement to Canadian goods and encourages citizens to do the same. She believes Canada needs to lower internal trade barriers and is committed to working with other provinces on issues such as labour mobility and energy independence.