Sask. reacts to Canada’s upcoming removal of countertariffs

WATCH: Jacob Carr has reaction from the Sask. government after Canada’s Prime Minister announced the removal of retaliatory tariffs placed on the U.S.

By Sept. 1, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is removing most of the U.S. countertariffs that are covered by the Canada-US-Mexico free trade agreement. The current countertariffs on steel, aluminum and autos will remain, as the two sides continue discussions to resolve the trade dispute regarding those goods.

• Canada to remove countertariffs on American goods amid ongoing trade war: Carney

Government of Saskatchewan Finance Minister Jim Reiter reacted to the announcement, saying it’s a step in the right direction, but that the discussions about the remaining countertariffs are top priority.

“I would just say, I’m glad that the federal government is responding. I’m hoping they realize the seriousness of this. There are potential massive impacts coming because of those extra steel tariffs that the Americans have put on.”

Earlier in the week, the U.S. Commerce Department said it would be expanding its steel and aluminum tariffs to include additional products such as wind turbines, mobile cranes, bulldozers and other heavy equipment.

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Some small businesses in Saskatchewan that sell American goods are looking forward to the countertariffs being removed.

The Funky Gifter in Regina told CTV News the removal of the tariffs will save them $46,000 for the remainder of the year, and around $138,000 annually.

“What we’re saving is pretty much a house payment or multiple car payments,” said Operating Manager Bruce Kozak. “It’s a substantial number; it’s a number that could make or break a business.”

Kozak said there were times when he was not sure that the business would stay afloat, with the imposing of the tariffs and the movement to buy Canadian only products. He credits Funky Gifter’s loyal customer base for keeping the doors open.

The business is overall thankful that the government made the decision to remove the tariffs, saying it will have a widespread effect across Canada.

“It’s going to help, it’s going to help lower the cost for the consumer, it’s going to help lower the cost for small businesses and operators, and it’s just going to be a great feeling for all,” Kozak said.