Days following the breakdown of trade discussions between Canada and the U.S. and the subsequent imposition of U.S. tariffs, Quebec provincial leaders are revealing their strategies in response to the ongoing economic challenges ahead of the provincial election this autumn.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration initiated 50% tariffs on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian exports after the failed negotiations. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. starting from September 8, following the decision to walk away from what he described as an unfavorable deal.

In light of the escalating trade tensions, each Quebec provincial party leader is outlining their approach to navigating the current trade dispute.

**Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ)**
Premier Christine Fréchette of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) supported Carney’s decision to cease the tariff talks. Her government introduced two new aid programs to assist businesses in the manufacturing and primary sectors affected by the trade war.

The first program aims to aid businesses with annual revenues exceeding $2 million that have been significantly impacted by the tariffs. The second program offers financial support to businesses earning between $1 million and $2 million annually, providing loans of up to $150,000 with a 12-month grace period.

**Québec Solidaire (QS)**
At a news conference, QS leader Ruba Ghazal proposed a $1 billion annual fund until 2028, labeled the “Trump Provision,” to safeguard affected companies and jobs. QS also suggested increasing Hydro-Québec tariffs as leverage against the U.S. and introducing a new economic pact for Quebec.

**Liberal Party of Quebec**
PLQ leader Charles Milliard emphasized building stronger economic and political alliances with Canadian partners and neighboring provinces. Milliard highlighted the importance of including energy in the tariff discussions, particularly leveraging Quebec’s Hydro-Québec as a strategic asset.

**Conservative Party of Quebec (PCQ)**
PCQ leader Éric Duhaime unveiled his anti-tariff strategy, focusing on maximizing natural resource exploitation, including natural gas, to achieve energy self-sufficiency. Duhaime criticized interprovincial trade barriers and emphasized the need to strengthen Quebec’s economic position.

**Parti Québécois**
PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon did not hold a news conference by early Monday afternoon, with no response from his representatives. Despite leading in polls, the PQ’s referendum promise faces skepticism among Quebecers, with plans to consult on independence post-Trump’s presidency.

The Quebec leaders are navigating the trade war challenges with tailored approaches as the province prepares for the upcoming election.