Quebec says it will use every tool to respond to trade war

Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette said the province will take steps to support local businesses as Canadian countertariffs on several U.S. products took effect. She urged Quebecers and municipalities to buy more Quebecmade goods and reduce reliance on American suppliers. Fréchette said the province’s new measures will give Quebec companies an advantage in public contracts and help them find markets elsewhere in Canada. She estimated the policy could affect about $1.5 billion in contracts over the next four months. The premier said the tariff fight could bring further challenges, including possible U.S. retaliation, but added that Quebec must still focus on protecting jobs and strengthening its economy. She also said the economic impact on the province is still unfolding, with August layoffs and trade pressures adding to uncertainty.