Bay of Quinte, ON – With new tariffs imposed by the U.S. today, Bay of Quinte Conservative MP Ryan Williams, Shadow Minister for International Trade, is reaffirming his commitment to fighting for local jobs and the 6,000 jobs in Bay of Quinte that rely on American investment and trade.
“These tariffs are yet another sign that Canada needs a stronger, more competitive trade strategy,” said Williams. “We need a government that will stand up for Canadian industries, defend our workers, and ensure we are not caught off guard in trade disputes.”
Williams reiterated the response outlined by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who has been calling for a trade policy that prioritizes Canadian workers and businesses. “Pierre has been clear—we need to secure better trade deals, lower taxes on businesses, and remove barriers that prevent Canada from being a global leader,” Williams emphasized.
Williams also criticized the Liberal government’s failure to build up Canada’s trade strengths and leverage. “Under Trudeau, Canada has cancelled or delayed 29 major energy projects worth $660 billion, including critical LNG and oil investments that Germany, Japan, South Korea, and other nations were eager to trade with us. Instead of securing new markets, we’ve weakened our position on the global stage,” he said.
The erosion of Canada’s economic leverage extends beyond energy. Williams pointed out that only 13 out of every 100 patents filed in Canada are Canadian-owned, with most of our intellectual property being given away. Meanwhile, Canada remains over-reliant on China, with 90% of our canola exports going to a country that has repeatedly cut off trade due to its mercantilist policies.
At the local level, Williams emphasized that he will fight alongside MPP Tyler Allsopp to protect jobs in Bay of Quinte. “Our community needs strong economic policies that attract investment and create opportunities. That means ensuring we have low tax rates, a strong and skilled workforce, and great partnerships with institutions like Loyalist College to support local businesses and drive innovation,” he said.
“As Shadow Minister for International Trade, I will fight hard to ensure that Canada is prepared, competitive, and strong,” said Williams. “This trade war is a wake-up call, and we need a government that is proactive, not reactive, in defending our economy, securing opportunities, and making sure Canadian businesses and workers don’t get left behind.”
