Donald Trump’s recent tariff delays have heightened tensions, highlighting Quebec’s economic vulnerability due to reliance on the U.S. François Legault’s proposal to employ the unemployed in dam construction lacks urgency. A comprehensive strategy is needed, focusing on immediate support for businesses and workers, essential infrastructure investments, and market diversification. Protecting jobs, enhancing productivity, and improving public services are critical, alongside proactive measures to reduce dependency on the U.S. and leverage international trade opportunities.
Donald Trump has escalated tensions by delaying his tariffs for a month and then launching a full-scale offensive against Quebec’s aluminum and steel industries. This precarious situation serves as a reminder of our heavy reliance on the United States, which poses a significant economic threat. It’s imperative that we take decisive action.
Instead of presenting a solid strategy, François Legault’s idea of sending the unemployed to construct new dams is insufficient. While supporting Hydro-Québec is commendable, we must consider how many initiatives can be rapidly implemented to assist the countless families at risk of job loss.
Establishing a Comprehensive Plan
Quebec urgently needs a strategy built on three essential pillars: (1) swift and targeted support for businesses and workers, (2) investments in infrastructure that truly address our needs, and (3) a robust diversification of our export markets.
Job Protection and Infrastructure Development
First and foremost, we must strive to safeguard as many jobs as possible in the industries facing the brunt of these challenges. This means supporting our small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by facilitating access to credit, refining the tax system, and minimizing regulations and red tape. We must prevent the heartbreaking closures of businesses that have the potential to thrive and adapt.
However, we cannot tackle this crisis in the same manner as we did during the pandemic: while we know this situation has a starting point, its conclusion remains uncertain. Our strategy must be precise, focusing on long-term productivity enhancements for businesses. This includes fostering research and development, encouraging innovation, establishing clear productivity goals, retraining the workforce, integrating artificial intelligence, and expanding into new markets.
Moreover, our infrastructure investments should prioritize the most pressing needs of Quebec’s residents. With a critical shortage of housing, deteriorating school conditions, outdated long-term care facilities for seniors, and lagging public transport, there are numerous pressing issues to address. What could unite us more than mobilizing skilled workers to improve our schools? We urge the government to swiftly compile and release a list of projects that can be executed without delay.
Finally, with our primary economic ally becoming increasingly unpredictable, even if tariff threats diminish, Quebec must proactively reduce its long-term dependence. This necessitates an immediate effort to diversify our export markets. We must also eliminate interprovincial barriers to facilitate our SMEs in exporting across the country, focusing on better regulatory harmonization and enhanced recognition of qualifications. Being part of Canada brings its advantages, and it is time for Quebec to take the lead in ensuring our interests are prioritized.
In addition, Canada’s trade agreements with the G7, Europe, and Indo-Pacific nations present exceptional opportunities. Quebec should adapt its business support tools to encourage companies to incorporate these markets into their growth strategies. This transformation must also be reflected in our trade diplomacy, which should provide better support for our businesses in these regions.
Quebec deserves a government that acts decisively rather than improvising in times of crisis. We are committed to proposing tangible solutions to protect our workers, support our businesses, and safeguard our families. With authentic leadership, Quebec can unite and turn this crisis into a stepping stone for future success.
Pablo Rodriguez, candidate for the leadership of the PLQ
Martin Coiteux, associate professor in the international business department at HEC and former minister
Frédéric Beauchemin, MP and spokesperson for economy, innovation, and finance