This week started off with a bit of a metaphorical bang. Canada's previously announced counter-tariffs on select U.S.-manufactured goods imported into Canada went into effect on September 8th.

These new Canadian counter-tariffs, which I discussed in my August 26th report a few weeks back, impose tariff rates of 15%, 25%, and 50%.

The list of U.S. imported goods that will be impacted by these new Canadian counter-tariffs can be found here:

So, what happens now?

Within hours of Canada's retaliatory counter-tariffs coming into effect, U.S. President Trump announced a new list of measures in response. The new measures include import bans on many Canadian alcoholic beverages, certain dairy products, and certain motorcycles beginning September 29, along with additional tariff measures on other Canadian goods.

At this point, it is far too soon to gauge what impact the tariffs and counter-tariffs will have on our Canada-U.S. trade relationship and, of course, our Canadian economy.

To date, the federal government has not publicly released detailed economic impact projections that would allow Canadians to fully assess the anticipated effects of these measures.

Given the potential impact on jobs, businesses, consumers, and our broader economy, Canadians deserve a clear explanation of the government's strategy and its assessment of the risks ahead.

For that reason, the Official Opposition has requested that Prime Minister Carney recall Parliament so that important questions can be asked and answers can be placed on the record.

However, the government has indicated that the House of Commons will reconvene as scheduled on September 21.

I have to say it is a bit odd to hear Prime Minister Carney encourage Canadians to buy Canadian and travel within Canada through a U.S.-owned online streaming platform rather than delivering that same message from the floor of the House of Commons, which belongs to all Canadians.

As it stands, the House of Commons does not reconvene until Monday, September 21.

My question for you this week is: Given the rapidly evolving trade dispute with the United States, do you think Prime Minister Carney should recall Parliament immediately to provide Canadians with an official update and answer questions on the record about the government's plans moving forward?

As always, you are welcome to share your thoughts on my Facebook page, by email at [email protected], or by calling toll-free at 1-800-665-8711.

Best regards,
Dan Albas MP

Dan Albas is the Member of Parliament for the riding of Okanagan Lake West - South Kelowna, Shadow Minister for Transport and the Vice Chair of the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. Dan's riding includes the communities of Kelowna (Mission, South Kelowna & East Kelowna within specific boundaries), West Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland and Westbank First Nation. You can reach Dan by calling 1-800-665-8711, emailing [email protected], or visiting DanAlbasMP.ca.