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For immediate release
February 3, 2025

Naheed Nenshi, Leader of Alberta’s New Democrats, issued the following statement in support of buying locally-made Canadian goods and supporting Alberta businesses:

“The Trump tariff war will hurt our jobs, our economy and our industries. And where is the Premier of Alberta in all of this?

“Danielle Smith is still parroting the talking points of the U.S. President, flying an American flag on her desk, taking credit for something she had no part in, and convening cabinet sometime later this week to talk about these tariffs and maybe do something. Meanwhile, other Premiers have been hard at work on actions to take and ways to protect their citizens now.

“Today’s temporary reprieve buys time, but the Premier needs to actually show up and do the work. Alberta needs to be focused on diversifying our markets, both with other countries and with an expansion of trade with other Canadians. Over five years of UCP government, nothing has been done on these critical files.

“Today, I call on the UCP government to create an all-party committee to work on this issue together. Let’s develop Alberta-made solutions in conjunction with Canada-wide policies to help protect Alberta businesses and workers if these tariffs come in 30 days, 90 days, or at all. Alberta’s New Democrats stand ready to help shoulder the work.

“While things seem out of control, Albertans can also do our part. Help your local Alberta businesses by buying products made right here, supporting Canadian-made goods. You can share your best local purchases on social media using the #shoplocal #supportlocal and #BuyCanadian hashtags.

“This is a time to stand with our local businesses and workers in the face of massive economic strife. We must support Alberta’s and Canada’s economy, starting with these measures.”