Regina, Saskatchewan - Amidst heightened concern, the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) acknowledges the United States' decision to postpone the imposition of a 25% tariff on Canadian agricultural exports for 30 days. This development offers temporary relief from the previously announced tariffs that are at odds with the 2020 Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

The original intent to levy significant tariffs casts a long shadow, threatening the wellbeing of Saskatchewan’s farm and ranch families, and agri-food businesses – the bedrock of the province's economy. APAS reinforces the need to honor the CUSMA agreement in sustaining the robust trade relations that mutually benefit both nations and are essential for maintaining a resilient supply chain.

"While the delay is a welcomed pause, it serves to extend the period of uncertainty for producers," states APAS President, Bill Prybylski. "The continued threat of tariffs still hangs over our heads, and with it, the risk of escalating inflation and uncertain trade relations. It's like throwing a wrench into a finely tuned machine. Everything gets jammed up. It affects everyone including families sitting down for dinner in the U.S. and in the end, nobody comes out ahead.”

Saskatchewan's agricultural community, a cornerstone of the Canadian and American economies through their dedication to producing high-quality food, now faces increased uncertainty. "If we thought the post-COVID inflation squeeze was tough, imposing tariffs is like setting up round two. It's simple: tariffs are taxes that crank up consumer prices, hitting everyone's wallet. Let's not go down that road again," stated Prybylski.

The 30-day grace period is a critical opportunity for policymakers to seek resolution and avoid the potentially significant and far-reaching adverse outcomes. With the United States as Canada’s largest agricultural trade partner, disruptions to this relationship could have broad, negative consequences.

Considering these developments, APAS calls for solidarity in backing our agricultural sector and intensifying our search for new global markets. Now more than ever, it is paramount to safeguard Saskatchewan's agricultural prospects and to continue our support for North American prosperity in harmony with CUSMA principles.

For more information, please contact: APAS Communications - Communications@apas.ca