British Columbia remains prepared to explore all possible measures, including export bans, in response to looming tariff threats from incoming U.S. President Donald Trump, according to Diana Gibson, B.C.’s Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation Minister.
Gibson’s remarks come in the wake of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s visit to Florida, where she met with Trump over the weekend to discuss trade issues.
“B.C. is acutely aware of the damage tariffs can inflict, especially considering the toll they’ve taken on our softwood lumber and forestry industries,” Gibson told Global News. “Our communities in northern B.C. have felt the devastating impact of these measures. We must be ready to counter any new tariffs with a comprehensive strategy.”
Gibson indicated that all options are under consideration, including restricting U.S. access to critical resources produced in B.C., such as germanium from Teck Resources’ smelter in Trail. Germanium is a vital mineral used in high-tech applications, including fiber optic cables. The prospect of limiting U.S. access to this resource gains significance in light of China’s recent export ban on the mineral.
While acknowledging the need for assertive measures, Gibson highlighted the importance of maintaining cooperative cross-border relationships. “B.C.’s assistance during California’s wildfire crisis is a testament to the value of mutual support between our countries,” she said. “It underscores how deeply interconnected our economies are and how much we rely on each other.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith expressed her concerns about upcoming tariffs on Canadian exports, including oil and gas. Following her meeting with Trump, Smith emphasized the need for Canada to strengthen its trade ties with the U.S. to avoid economic fallout.
“If tariffs are imposed, energy exports will be key in negotiating their removal,” Smith said. “We need to remind our American partners how much they benefit from Canadian energy.”
Smith’s trip to Florida has sparked controversy, with critics accusing her of abandoning a unified national approach to dealing with U.S. protectionist policies. In response, Smith stated that blocking oil and gas exports would only exacerbate Canada’s internal divisions. “It would create a national unity crisis,” she warned.
Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has taken a more hardline stance, suggesting Canada should not hesitate to retaliate against U.S. tariffs by leveraging critical resources. “We need to be ready to make them feel the economic impact,” Ford stated.
Gibson, however, stressed the importance of a balanced approach. “We must be strategic and consider all possible tools to protect B.C.’s economy,” she said. “We also need to collaborate with other provinces to strengthen our federal response.”
In addition to hardball tactics, B.C. is pursuing diplomatic efforts by engaging with western U.S. state governors and planning a delegation to Washington, D.C. to advocate for the province’s economic interests.
Gibson noted that B.C. is also focused on diversifying its trade partnerships and fast-tracking major infrastructure projects to strengthen the province’s economic resilience amid rising protectionist threats from the U.S.
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