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Canada’s Retaliatory Response to Trump Tariffs Paused for Now
February 6, 2025
BC businesses and consumers anxiously awaited the Trump administration’s 25% tariffs on Canada, which were set to be enacted on Saturday, February 1. On Monday February 3, after two phone calls with PM Justin Trudeau, the President paused the tariffs for 30-days, after Canada made concessions to demands on border security and enforcement.
As reported by CBC, the Canadian government continues strengthening border security, committing $1.3 billion including enforcement with helicopter patrols, new technology, and 10,000 new frontline personnel. The PM also agreed to appoint a fentanyl “czar “and list Mexican cartels as a terrorist organization. Trudeau said he’d also launch a joint Canada – U.S. task force to combat organized crime and money laundering. On Truth Social, President Trump said that he is pleased with the initial outcome.
On the day the tariffs were supposed to come into effect, BC’s Premier David Eby announced retaliatory measures, which have now been paused. The counter-measures included directing the BC Liquor Distribution Branch to immediately stop purchasing U.S. liquor from “Red states” and remove popular “Red state” brands from liquor store shelves. Our liquor license consultants are keeping a close watch on this frequently-changing story.
Of the Trump tariffs, Premier Eby said “We won’t back down or be bullied into becoming another state.” and “Our province is unified and resolute. We’ll never stop standing up for B.C. and Canada”. Premier Eby has said that retaliatory measures will be reinstated should Trump go ahead with the 25% tariffs.
About Thrive Advisors
Thrive Liquor & Cannabis Advisors are leading and trusted BC liquor license consultants. We work with private liquor stores, providing liquor license application services, liquor operation support and strategic planning. We help BC’s private liquor retailers succeed!
