EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is calling on Ottawa to get back to the negotiating table with the United States before its counter-tariffs take effect in two weeks.

Smith says in a statement posted online that tariffs and counter-tariffs only risk further escalating the trade war between Canada and its southern neighbour.

The federal government announced today its plan to implement retaliatory tariffs starting Sept. 8 on a range of U.S. exports, ranging from steel and aluminum to consumer items, including smartphones and golf clubs.

It also announced relief and support measures for businesses to withstand the trade fight.

Smith says she appreciates Ottawa’s plan to support businesses and that her government is working to see if provincial relief is also necessary.

Smith has been a holdout among provincial and territorial leaders when it comes to supporting Prime Minister Mark Carney’s plan for counter-tariffs, after trade talks with the U.S. broke down Friday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 25, 2026.

Jack Farrell, The Canadian Press