‘I’m proud of our country right now’: Kinew on Canada’s counter-tariffs

Premier Wab Kinew expressed pride in Canada's response to recent trade tensions with the United States. Canada imposed $27.6 billion in tariffs on U.S. imports, in a move aimed at countering American tariffs on Canadian products. Speaking at a news conference, Kinew emphasized that Canada does not need to "take a knee" to the U.S. and can instead "stand up for its own economy and its own jobs."

He encouraged Manitobans to purchase Canadian products, noting that it becomes even more advantageous when considering affordability. Ottawa's new tariffs target a wide range of retail items, such as honey, toilet paper, and makeup. The provincial government is currently reviewing the impact of the tariffs and will announce additional support for affected businesses and workers later this week.

Meanwhile, provincial leaders are reaching out to their counterparts in various U.S. states, with Kinew acknowledging that the upcoming midterm elections in the U.S. will be a key factor in the political landscape.