B.C. Premier Eby Cancels U.S. Anti-Tariff Ads Amid Tensions

UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, British Columbia Premier David Eby has announced the cancellation of a highly anticipated advertising campaign aimed at countering U.S. lumber tariffs. This decision comes after Eby met with federal officials on November 3, 2023, amid rising tensions over trade relations with the United States.

The planned ads, which were set to launch this month, aimed to inform American consumers that the current 50 percent combined duties and tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber impose higher import fees compared to Russian products. Eby emphasized the importance of working collaboratively with the federal government, stating, “One of my commitments to the federal government was that if they came to the table with us, we would work with them on communications and strategy.”

The decision to withdraw the campaign follows backlash from U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently threatened a 10 percent tariff increase on Canadian goods in response to an Ontario ad featuring a vintage clip of former President Ronald Reagan criticizing tariffs. Ontario Premier Doug Ford initially allowed these ads to run during the World Series but ultimately pulled them after Trump’s reaction.

Eby confirmed that the decision to cancel the advertising was his own and not a directive from Ottawa. “I knew that it was a source of anxiety for many people, including potentially the federal government,” Eby said, highlighting the sensitivity surrounding the issue.

As tensions between Canada and the U.S. escalate, the impact of these tariff policies could significantly affect the lumber industry and beyond. With the cancellation of this campaign, stakeholders are left questioning what the next steps will be in addressing these trade challenges.

Moving forward, all eyes will be on further negotiations between Canadian and U.S. officials, as the lumber sector braces for potential repercussions from the ongoing tariff disputes.

Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.