Key facts
- British Columbia Premier David Eby suggested Canada should consider non-tariff measures against the U.S. in their trade dispute.
- Eby proposed halting Canada's planned purchase of F-35 fighter jets from U.S. defense giant Lockheed Martin.
- Eby also suggested imposing additional export tariffs or taxes on American thermal coal shipped through British Columbia.
- The proposals come amid escalating trade tensions, including new U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports and planned Canadian retaliation.
- Canada's Finance Minister announced tariffs on $20 billion of U.S. imports, including steel, fish, dairy, and electronics.
British Columbia Premier David Eby has proposed that Canada consider non-tariff measures in response to the ongoing trade dispute with the United States. Eby suggested that Canada should reconsider its planned purchase of 88 F-35 fighter jets from U.S. defense contractor Lockheed Martin, a deal valued at approximately $12 billion. He argued that buying jets from a country that imposes tariffs on Canadian goods is counterproductive.
In addition to the fighter jet procurement, Eby also suggested exploring additional export tariffs or taxes on American thermal coal that is shipped through British Columbia to the Westshore terminal near Vancouver. This route is a significant export channel for U.S. coal producers.
These proposals come as the trade relationship between the U.S. and Canada has significantly deteriorated. The U.S. recently imposed new 50% tariffs on approximately $20 billion of Canadian imports, with further increases planned for Canadian vehicles, auto parts, and steel. Canada has announced its intention to retaliate with dollar-for-dollar tariffs on U.S. imports, including steel, fish, dairy, and electronics, totaling about $20 billion.