Wakeham says these tariffs would drive up costs, threaten jobs, and destabilize industries that are the backbone of our economy."
The leader of the provincial Progressive Conservative Party believes the proposed U.S. 25 percent tariff is a direct attack on workers, families and small businesses. Tony Wakeham is calling on the federal and provincial governments to vigorously defend Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy against this move which he says would have devastating consequences for the province. "Newfoundland and Labrador depends heavily on trade with the United States, with over two-thirds of our seafood exports, half of our manufacturing exports, and nearly 43 per cent of our oil and gas exports destined for U.S. markets,” he says.
Wakeham says these "tariffs would drive up costs, threaten jobs, and destabilize industries that are the backbone of our economy." He emphasized the importance of the fishery, which he described as the lifeblood of rural Newfoundland and Labrador. Wakeham also pointed to other key industries such as petroleum production, manufacturing, and lumber, warning of widespread economic harm if the tariffs are implemented.