Premier Simpson issued the following statement today in response to the latest round of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration and the Canadian government’s newly announced countermeasures:

“The Trump administration’s decision to impose tariffs on Canadian goods is unjustified, short-sighted, and harmful to businesses and consumers on both sides of the border.

I stand with the Prime Minister and my fellow Premiers in rejecting these measures and supporting Canada’s strong, coordinated response. The GNWT fully supports these actions and is taking further steps to reinforce our economic resilience here in the North.

While the NWT may not be as reliant on U.S. trade as some provinces, we are not immune to the impacts of these tariffs. Higher costs for goods, increased economic uncertainty, and disruption to national supply chains will affect businesses, communities, and families across the territory. Northerners should not have to bear the consequences of reckless trade decisions made elsewhere.

As part of our response, the GNWT is taking action to support a united Canadian approach, including:

• Reviewing procurement policies to reduce or eliminate purchases from U.S. companies where possible.
• Halting the Northwest Territories Liquor and Cannabis Commission’s purchase of American goods.
• Keeping in close communication with Indigenous governments, community leaders, and the business sector to ensure a coordinated response that reflects the needs of all Northerners.

But this is not just about tariffs—it is about Canada’s long-term economic security. If we want to be less vulnerable to external trade disruptions, we need to invest in ourselves. This moment should be a turning point—an opportunity to build a stronger, more self-sufficient, and more connected North.

For too long, the North has been left out of critical nation-building investments. It is time for real commitments to infrastructure, energy security, and resource development—not just for the benefit of Northerners, but for the security and prosperity of all Canadians.

Projects like the Mackenzie Valley Highway and the Slave Geological Province Corridor are not just regional priorities—they are national ones. Investing in Northern infrastructure and resource development will strengthen Canadian supply chains, unlock economic growth and global markets, create jobs, and open new opportunities for Northerners to build strong, sustainable communities.

Arctic sovereignty is more than a political statement—it is something Northerners assert every day. But presence alone is not enough. To truly secure our place in Canada’s future, we need the infrastructure, security, and economic investments that empower the North to grow, prosper, and lead.

While we confront today’s challenges, we must also lay the groundwork for lasting economic strength and opportunity. The GNWT will continue to advocate to the Government of Canada and work with all partners to strengthen Canada’s economic resilience, advance critical infrastructure, and ensure that the North plays its full role in shaping our national future.”

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