Northern premiers decry U.S. tariffs, voice support for counter-measures

The premiers of N.W.T., Yukon and Nunavut are voicing their support for the Canadian government's plan to enact counter-measures after the U.S. announced punishing tariffs on nearly all Canadian goods Saturday.

In a statement posted to social media, Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai called the U.S. tariffs on Canada "an insult to the friendship and partnership that has existed between Canada and the US for generations."

He also encouraged Yukoners to buy Canadian, a call that was echoed by his counterparts in N.W.T. and Nunavut.

In his own statement, N.W.T. Premier R.J. Simpson called the U.S. government's decision to enact tariffs "aggressive and disappointing."

Simpson said the N.W.T. government is exploring ways it can join other Canadian jurisdictions in pursuing counter-measures against the United States.

"This includes reviewing our procurement policies to eliminate purchases from U.S. companies where possible and halting the Northwest Territories Liquor and Cannabis Commission's purchase of American goods," he said. Some provinces, like Ontario and Nova Scotia have also moved to stop importing U.S. alcohol.

Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok called for Canadian unity and emphasized the harm tariffs could do in Nunavut in a statement to posted to social media Saturday.

"Nunavummiut are faced with the highest costs of living in Canada, as almost all our goods are flown in from southern jurisdictions," he said in a statement posted to social media.

"These tariffs will inevitably put more pressure on families already struggling to pay the rent and feed their children."

Both Simpson and Akeeagok also said they would like to see Canada increase investment in Northern economies as part of its response to U.S. tariffs.

Akeeagok pointed to potential investments in Nunavut's critical minerals and fisheries, while Simpson said he would like to see more investment in N.W.T. infrastructure to create opportunities for mining.

Simpson said his government will also be working to encourage more Canadians tourists to visit Northwest Territories.