Calling it a sad day for PEI, Canada and the U-S, Premier Rob Lantz and his Cabinet Committee on Trade Relations provided some details on what Lantz calls the first phase of PEI’s tariff response plan.
That first phase includes new programs to support Island businesses; the removal of U-S liquor from PEI liquor stores; and a review of PEI’s procurement practices, including U-S contracts.
Economic Development, Innovation and Trade Minister Darlene Compton says that through Innovation PEI, Government is launching the Export Enhancement and Diversification Fund. She says it will provide non-repayable assistance to those in the business community affected by the changes. The fund will cover up to 60 percent of eligible costs to a maximum of $32-thousand – covering costs related to market research, advertising and promotion, market strategies, and travel costs for trade shows and other events.
Compton says they are also rolling out the Tariff Working Capital Program, which offers relief loans to businesses affected by the tariffs.
The Trade Minister adds that PEI will be doubling the trade missions and export companies across PEI can join those missions. Compton says they have strategically planned multiple destinations connecting with buyers, sellers and distributers in places like Canada, Europe, Southeast Asia, Mexico and the Caribbean this year. The trade missions calendar can be found on the Innovation PEI website.
Premier Lantz says that while the Province pushes for solutions on international trade, it can’t ignore the barriers that exist in our own country. Lantz says we face expensive bridge and ferry tolls just to access the rest of Canada and those costs put Island businesses at a disadvantage and add an extra burden to our economy. The Premier says those tolls need to end and that will be his primary message to the Prime Minister and the other Premiers.
Finance Minister Jill Burridge says that on Tuesday morning, staff started removing all American liquor from shelves in PEI Liquor stores. She says Government is reviewing its procurement practices, including U-S contracts within core government to identify if there are Canadian or international alternatives. Burridge says they have prioritized local products and services in the past, and will continue to do so. The Finance Minister says Government will be relentless in seeking alternatives to any American contracts it holds, while ensuring prudent use of taxpayer dollars – and that government services and programs continue
