B.C. Pauses Retaliatory Actions as Trump Delays Tariff Decision for 30 Days

B.C. is hitting pause on its planned retaliatory measures against the U.S. after President Donald Trump announced a 30-day delay on imposing tariffs against Canada.

Premier David Eby made the announcement Monday evening, stating that while the province welcomes the reprieve, it will continue preparing for potential trade disruptions.

“We’ve got to prepare for the worst-case scenario even though we hope for the best,” Eby said.

Retaliation Plans on Hold—For Now

B.C.’s proposed countermeasures—which were set to take effect if Trump followed through with his 25% tariff threat—included:

• Removing U.S. alcohol from government-run liquor store shelves, particularly products from Republican-leaning states.

• Restricting business contracts with American companies for Crown corporations.

• Shifting resource exports such as critical minerals and energy away from the U.S. and toward alternative international markets.

While these measures have been suspended for now, Eby said B.C. businesses have shown strong interest in voluntarily labeling local products in stores to make it easier for consumers to support domestic industries.

“There’s huge interest on a voluntary basis to do this,” he said. “And in order for it to happen quickly, a voluntary basis is the best path forward.”

Over the next 30 days, the provincial government plans to identify alternative suppliers from Canada and other global markets to ensure B.C. industries have options if the trade war resumes.

Canada’s Concessions to the U.S.

Earlier Monday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Trump had agreed to hold off on tariffs for at least 30 days after Canada committed to enhancing border security.

The Canadian government has pledged $1.3 billion toward strengthening the 49th parallel, which will include:

• Deploying new helicopters, surveillance technology, and personnel.

• Appointing a fentanyl "czar" to address the illegal drug trade between Canada and the U.S.

Trump Singles Out B.C. in Tariff Threats

Over the weekend, Trump specifically mentioned British Columbia in his justification for the proposed tariffs, alleging the province played a role in the heightened domestic production of fentanyl entering the U.S.

Eby responded by suggesting that rather than resorting to tariffs, the U.S. and Canada should strengthen intelligence-sharing and law enforcement cooperation to combat cross-border fentanyl smuggling.

A Changing Trade Landscape

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also announced a pause on retaliatory trade measures following Trump’s delay. However, Eby warned that regardless of what happens in the coming weeks, B.C.’s trade relationship with the U.S. has changed permanently.

“If we can avoid these tariffs, we should,” Eby said. “But we won’t do so at the expense of our sovereignty, or of our integrity as a country, or of ourselves as Canadians.”

While the immediate risk of tariffs has been postponed, B.C. remains on high alert, ready to take action if the situation escalates once again.