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Premiers Split on Using Potash as a Trade Weapon — What It Means for Your Grocery Bill

  Published August 31, 2026 Canada's premiers can't agree on how far to take the trade war with the United States — and this week, the fight is over a grey mineral mined almost 2,000 kilometres from Ottawa: potash. The disagreement matters well beyond provincial politics. Potash is the "P" and "K" of fertilizer economics — a key ingredient in the blends that grow the wheat, canola, and corn that eventually show up as bread, canola oil, and everything fed to livestock. Canada supplies about 85% of the potash the U.S. uses, which is exactly why some premiers see it as leverage — and why others are warning that pulling that lever could backfire on the very provinces pushing for it. Ford wants to pull the lever. Moe and Smith are warning not to. Ontario Premier Doug Ford is pushing for the toughest response available, including resource-based leverage. Saskatchewan's Scott Moe and Alberta's Danielle Smith are pumping the brakes, warning that squeezing po...

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Trump Reaffirms Tariff Threats Against Canada at Davos

In a virtual address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs against Canada. Trump emphasized that the United States does not need Canadian imports of oil, gas, vehicles, or lumber, and criticized Canada's trade policies as unfair.

Trump's comments come just days after his inauguration for a second term, marking his first international speech since returning to the White House. He characterized the trade relationship between the two nations as adversarial and blamed Canada's import policies for the U.S.'s trade deficit.

During his speech, Trump highlighted his administration's protectionist plans, including tariffs, deregulation, and tax cuts, aimed at reducing inflation and boosting the U.S. economy. He also mentioned that the U.S. would demand respect from other nations and would not tolerate trade deficits.

Canadian political leaders have expressed concern over Trump's remarks, with some advocating for diplomacy and others preparing for potential retaliation. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who recently met with Trump, emphasized the importance of cross-border trade within the oil and gas sectors.

Trump's speech has triggered widespread criticism and debate among political leaders and economists, who warn that tariffs on Canadian energy exports could drive up gasoline prices for Americans and threaten Trump's plans for "energy dominance".


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