Smith, Ford remain at odds on tariffs despite message of unity at premiers' meeting

Alberta's premier is trying to assure Canadians – and Americans – that she has a strategy to address possible Trump tariffs.

Alberta's premier is trying to assure Canadians – and Americans – that she has a strategy to address possible Trump tariffs.

Incoming U.S. president Donald Trump has threatened 25-per-cent tariffs on Canadian goods unless Canada meets NATO spending targets and beefs up border security.

They are demands Premier Danielle Smith has reiterated need to be met, and she has promised to take action in the province.

"Alberta, for our part, will not wait around. Last week, I announced we will create a $29-million fund to create new border teams," she said at a recent meeting with Toronto's business community.

Smith was in Toronto on Monday to meet with Canadian premiers to discuss possible responses to tariffs.

Despite premiers promising to stay united "to provide steady and stable leadership," Smith and Ontario Premier Doug Ford – who has promised retaliation against tariffs – remain at strategic odds.

"(It's) a bit of a good cop, bad cop scenario," said trade expert Eric Miller, with the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. "Danielle Smith is saying, 'We can provide you with all the oil you need. Just let us do it and don't put tariffs on it.'