‘Can’t let our guard down’: Those in Sask. relieved by Canada’s exclusion from latest tariff action, remain vigilant

Carla Beck speaks to reporters following U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff announcement on April 2, 2025.

Canada has seemingly been spared by U.S President Donald Trump’s latest round of tariffs.

The American president held a press conference Wednesday afternoon – outlining new trade actions affecting more than 175 countries. Many of those nations affected saw a baseline 10 per cent tariff.

There was certainly relief in the air at the Saskatchewan Legislature following the announcement. NDP Opposition Leader Carla Beck was the first to respond.

“Even if the best-case scenario today proves to be true – that Canada is not going to face those 10 per cent tariffs – the reality is that the uncertainty that we’ve been experiencing in this country has already had impacts,” she told reporters.

“It’s put a damper on investment.”

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The Government of Saskatchewan says its continuing to examine the president’s announcement.

In a statement to CTV News, Premier Scott Moe expressed his relief that more trade actions have seemingly paused.

“For now, it appears that Canada’s approach of a coordinated, strong and measured response while continuing to engage with U.S. government officials at all levels has been successful,” his statement read.

It’s believed that the earlier 25 per cent tariff on steel will remain in place – something that will affect Regina’s Evraz steel plant.

Trump also complained about agriculture without outlining specific measures against Canada. 

The NDP say the province can’t let down its guard. 

“This has been a wakeup call,” Beck added. “It would be foolish frankly for any of us to take this pause today as a signal that we can let our guard down.”

In his statement, Premier Moe vowed to work toward the removal of steel and lumber tariffs.

“Saskatchewan will continue to make the case that free and fair trade benefits our citizens on both sides of the border as we work to increase our export markets in the U.S. and throughout the world,” he said.