NWT premier looks for silver lining as United States launches trade war with Canada

U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to slap steep tariffs on Canadian goods 'aggressive and disappointing,' says Premier R.J. Simpson


NWT Premier RJ Simpson shown on a call with media in May 2024. (CKLB files)

The United States government’s “aggressive and disappointing” decision to impose tariffs on all Canadian goods will be met by counter-measures, including from the Northwest Territories, says Premier R.J. Simpson.

While the Northwest Territories has limited direct exports to the United States, we are not immune to the repercussions of these tariffs, Simpson stated on Saturday night.

“This includes reviewing our procurement policies to eliminate purchases from U.S. companies where possible and halting the Northwest Territories Liquor and Cannabis Commission’s purchase of American goods,” stated Simpson in a release.

“These are significant measures, and we do not take them lightly. We will continue to identify meaningful ways to stand in solidarity with our fellow Canadians.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets U.S. President Donald Trump in the Oval Office in February 2017. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia)

U.S. President Donald Trump will hit Canada with 25-per-cent tariffs on Tuesday, with a lower 10 per cent duty for energy.

Trump linked the tariffs to the illegal flow of drugs and people across the border. However, the Canadian Press reported that volume of drugs entering the United States from Canada is minuscule compared to the amounts coming from Mexico and China, who are also facing new tariffs.

Simpson noted the pending trade war presents an opportunity to strengthen the diversity of the NWT’s economy.

Domestic tourism can be promoted by inviting Canadians to explore our territory and having Northerners also travel within Canada.

Strategic infrastructure projects such as the Mackenzie Valley Highway and Slave Geological Province Corridor can be advanced to strengthen Canadian supply chains and improve access to critical minerals.

And, of course, businesses and residents can buy Canadian products, and support Canadian companies and industries.

The GNWT will eliminate purchases from U.S. companies where possible, and halt the Northwest Territories Liquor and Cannabis Commission’s purchase of American goods.

Simpson met virtually with premiers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday afternoon.

Later this month, Simpson will travel to Washington, D.C., to join Canada’s Premiers to present a united front.

“We will work to ensure Americans understand the real and significant impact these tariffs will have on their wallets, and we will stand firm in defending our economic and national interests,” stated Simpson.

“We will not accept a future imposed from outside — we will call it out and stand against it, just as those before us always have.”

About the Author

James O'Connor
James O’Connor joined CKLB 101.9 FM at the start of 2024, after working as a journalist, photo editor and managing editor at newspapers in Manitoba and the Northwest Territories. James also has experience in politics, arts, service clubs and the NWT’s non-profit sector. At this point in his lengthy career, James is thrilled to be working at such a unique media outlet and always welcomes notes from listeners at: james.oconnor@cklbradio.com.