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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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Ontario Premier Ford's Bold Stance Amid U.S. Tariff Tensions

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has issued a strong warning in response to the United States' decision to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods. Speaking at a mining convention in Toronto, Ford threatened to cut off electricity exports to U.S. states like New York, Michigan, and Minnesota if the tariffs proceed. Ontario is a significant electricity supplier to these regions, and Ford emphasized the potential impact of such a move, stating, "They rely on our energy. They need to feel the pain".

The tariffs, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, include a 25% levy on Canadian goods and a 10% tariff on energy exports. In retaliation, Ford has also proposed additional measures, such as implementing surcharges on energy exports and urging Ontarians to prioritize locally made products. The Premier's remarks come as Canada braces for the economic fallout, with federal and provincial governments preparing coordinated responses to protect industries and workers.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced retaliatory tariffs targeting billions of dollars in U.S. exports, signaling Canada's firm stance against the trade measures. As tensions escalate, the situation underscores the interconnectedness of the two nations' economies and the potential consequences of a trade war.

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