Premier Scott Moe, at a press conference on Wednesday, introduced measures to reduce reliance on U.S. products in response to newly imposed tariffs.
Moe stated that these steps are in direct response to U.S. tariffs, which he called an unfair economic attack:
- SLGA to Stop Purchasing U.S. Alcohol: The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) will no longer buy alcohol from American suppliers.
- Liquor Retailers Can Sell Existing Stock: Retailers may continue selling their current U.S. alcohol inventory but cannot place new orders.
- Prioritizing Canadian Procurement: Government purchases of goods and services will prioritize Canadian suppliers to reduce reliance on U.S. products.
- Pause on Future Capital Projects: New government-funded projects are on hold while procurement policies are reassessed.
- Contractors to Report U.S. Product Usage: Ongoing projects must disclose the extent of American materials used and work to reduce it.
- Alternative Suppliers for Gaming Equipment: Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan will source VLT and slot machines, worth $43 million, from non-U.S. manufacturers.
The province also expects school divisions, municipalities, and post-secondary institutions to adopt similar procurement practices favoring Canadian products and services.
Moe acknowledged the longstanding trade relationship with the U.S. but stated that Saskatchewan must respond when its economy is threatened.