Canada’s premiers are sharply divided over how to respond to new U.S. tariffs, as Prime Minister Mark Carney returned from Washington without securing a deal. The lack of immediate progress has reignited debate across the provinces about how aggressive Canada should be in its trade negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration.
At a Toronto conference hosted by BMO and Eurasia Group, Ontario Premier Doug Ford took a hardline stance, saying he’s prepared to cut off exports of energy, minerals, and other key resources if the U.S. fails to back down. Ford argued that Canada must be ready to apply real economic pressure to get results, framing his approach as one of firm retaliation rather than diplomacy.
In contrast, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith urged a more diplomatic path. Speaking at the U.S.-Canada Summit, she made clear that she does not support halting shipments south of the border. Smith said she believes in reinforcing the value of Canadian products to the U.S. economy and maintaining a constructive relationship with President Trump. “It’s important to cultivate a relationship rather than take an ‘elbows up’ approach,” she said, emphasizing that persuasion and strategic dialogue could be more effective in reaching a deal.
Federal Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc sought to strike an optimistic tone. He said that “substantial progress” was made during talks at the White House this week and that both sides are working to “quickly land deals” on steel, aluminum, and energy. However, no formal agreements have been announced, leaving provinces divided on whether to ramp up economic pressure or continue diplomatic engagement.