NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is calling for Canada to bar American companies from federal government procurement contracts if the United States imposes damaging tariffs on Canadian goods.
Singh unveiled his “Buy Canadian” plan during a meeting with unionized steelworkers in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, on Thursday. He argued that Canada should retaliate against potential U.S. tariffs by prioritizing domestic companies in government contracts.
“If President Trump moves forward with these unfair tariffs, Canada must respond by ensuring that our federal procurement dollars support Canadian workers and businesses,” Singh said.
Singh also proposed that any revenue generated from retaliatory tariffs be directed toward supporting Canadian workers impacted by U.S. trade actions. This includes workers in industries like steel and aluminum, which have historically been targeted by American tariffs.
The NDP leader’s proposal comes as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods as early as February 1. Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, reinforced this threat during a Senate hearing on Wednesday, suggesting that Canada could face emergency tariffs initially, with the possibility of additional measures later.
Singh’s plan aligns with a proposal put forward earlier this week by Liberal leadership candidate Chrystia Freeland, who also advocated for a “Buy Canadian” strategy. Freeland suggested that Ottawa should exclude American companies from non-defence-related government procurement contracts in response to U.S. tariffs.
The threat of U.S. tariffs has reignited trade tensions between Canada and the United States, with Canadian leaders exploring ways to protect domestic industries and workers. Singh’s visit to Sault Ste. Marie, a city with a strong steel industry, underscores the potential impact of tariffs on Canadian manufacturing hubs.
“We cannot allow American protectionism to harm our workers and economy,” Singh said. “Canada must stand firm and take decisive action to defend our interests.”
As the February 1 deadline approaches, Canadian officials are closely monitoring developments in Washington. The federal government has yet to confirm its response to potential U.S. tariffs, but Singh’s proposal highlights the growing pressure on Ottawa to take a strong stance in defense of Canadian workers and industries.