Alberta Premier Danielle Smith wants Ottawa to resume trade talks with U.S. before counter-tariffs begin

Edmonton · Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is calling on Ottawa to get back to the negotiating table with the United States before its counter-tariffs take effect in two weeks. Province to see if potential gaps in federal business aid program require financial support from Alberta The Canadian Press · Posted: Aug 26, 2026 12:36 AM EDT | Last Updated: 9 minutes ago Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said tariffs and counter-tariffs only risk further escalating the trade war between Canada and the U.S. The federal government announced counter-tariffs starting Sept. 8 on U.S. exports like steel, aluminum, smartphones, and golf clubs. Smith appreciates Ottawa’s business support measures but worries about increased costs, supply chain disruptions, and potential broader tariffs impacting Canadians. She urged Ottawa to use the remaining time before Sept. 8 to resume negotiations. Smith has opposed Prime Minister Mark Carney’s counter-tariffs, citing concerns about job and business pressures. A preliminary analysis shows Canadian counter-tariffs could affect about $4.8 billion worth of U.S. imports into Alberta. Opposition leader Naheed Nenshi called for Alberta to align with Canada’s stance, including reinstating a U.S. alcohol import ban and postponing a referendum on Alberta’s future within Canada. He argued the province’s actions weaken Canada’s negotiating position. Former premiers Jason Kenney and Alison Redford supported Smith’s cautious approach, warning that using oil and gas as leverage could risk 140,000 jobs. Smith defended her stance, emphasizing Alberta’s constructive diplomatic relationship with the U.S. and the need for a definitive referendum result on independence.