Some shoppers out Sunday afternoon in Halifax say they are already changing their habits following U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods.
Mike MacDonald said he intended to read labels at the grocery store so he knew where everything came from.
“I think that like everybody in Canada, we’re probably gonna look at buying Canadian, try to shop more local and do what you can that way,” he said.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston announced steps to respond to the tariff increase that will come into effect later this week. They include removing U.S. alcohol from NSLC shelves, cancelling contracts with U.S. businesses, and toll increases at the Cobequid Pass for U.S. commercial drivers.
“I love it!,” said Heidi Rast. “I think it’s great. I like my local breweries. So, support your local pubs, your local breweries. I’m game for that. I think a strong response is the right response.”
Others were also supportive of the federal government’s response to slap 25 per cent tariffs on American goods coming into Canada, effective Tuesday.
“Bring it on, slap even more tariffs!” said Anne Leydon. “We got to play tough. We can’t back down to somebody trying to push us around. And I’m hoping that … we all stick together as Canadians.”
Some Nova Scotians said they are concerned about prices amid the dispute.
“This is going to negatively impact affordability,” said Zachary MacNeil. “So, I hope that it can be over soon and I hope that a recession doesn’t come because that’s what’s [on] a lot of Canadians’ minds as well.”
Other Nova Scotians were worried about how these tariffs will impact Canadian relations with its neighbour, particularly as Trump continues to openly suggest Canada become the 51st state.
“If Trump wants us, we might be in trouble,” said Ted Crouse.
Despite all the talk, Nova Scotians are still encouraged by the response of the province and are hopeful the trade war won’t last.
“So far, our governments are doing what they can right out of the gate and every time I see some sort of constraint on our part against the U.S., it feels good to hear,” said Sara Murray.
“I hope it doesn’t last long. I hope the U.S. government and that Trump can come to his senses and see this is gonna hurt everybody. It’s ridiculous.”
