Smith Urges Diplomacy, Border Security, and Energy Policy Overhaul to Avoid U.S. Tariffs
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is urging Canadian leaders to strengthen relations with the newly inaugurated Trump administration to avoid potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. While President Donald Trump has refrained from imposing tariffs for now, Smith believes the risk remains and Canada must take proactive steps to preserve its economic and security ties with the United States.
During President Trump’s inauguration speech, he stated his intention to overhaul the U.S. trade system. “Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens,” he told attendees at the indoor inauguration. He also stated his plan to create an External Revenue Service to collect tariff revenue.
Smith, who watched the speech from the Canadian embassy in Washington D.C. took note of the continued risk of punitive trade measures against Canada. In a media release following the event, Smith spoke of the importance of diplomacy and warned against retaliatory measures. “The worst possible response would be declaring victory or escalating tensions with unnecessary threats,” she said in a release. “Strong and consistent diplomacy is key to maintaining our critical energy and security partnership.”
The Premier outlined several recommendations to federal lawmakers, including enhancing trade cooperation and bolstering border security. Smith suggested negotiating ways to increase bilateral trade by expanding imports and exports in sectors such as oil, timber, agriculture, and technology. She also called for greater provincial investment in securing Canada’s southern border to combat illegal drugs and migration. Alberta has already allocated $29 million for a new Sheriffs unit to reinforce border security, taking the initiative before announcements by Ottawa.
In a nod to U.S. priorities, Smith proposed Ottawa significantly accelerate Canada’s NATO commitment to spend 2% of GDP on defence, aligning with longstanding Tump’s stated expectations. She also advocated for a stricter immigration policy, citing the need to close loopholes that could allow individuals hostile to Canada and the United States to enter the country.
On energy policy, Smith had pointed words for the federal government’s regulations and called for an immediate repeal of policies such as production caps, Clean Electricity Regulations, and the Impact Assessment Act. She also urged Ottawa to fast-track pre-approvals for the Northern Gateway and Energy East pipeline projects, highlighting their potential to strengthen North American energy security in improve Canada’s options when it comes to exporting energy resources.
Smith’s visit to Washington, which continues this week, is focused on promoting Alberta’s energy sector and fostering improved trade relations. She remains optimistic about the potential for collaboration, particularly in light of the Trump administration’s decision to delay tariff implementation.
“This decision acknowledges the complexity of our integrated markets and the implications for workers and businesses on both sides of the border,” Smith said. “Avoiding tariffs will save hundreds of thousands of jobs and preserve the viability of critical industries in both countries.”
The Premier’s trade mission is part of Alberta’s strategy to advocate for the province’s energy and economic interests in the evolving U.S.-Canada relationship.