British Columbia Premier Targets Alaska-Bound Trucks with Proposed Tolls
by james brooks tHe alaska beacon
British Columbia plans truck tolls to Alaska in retaliation to Trump’s tariff threats. Alaska officials worry about supply disruptions and rising costs.
The head of the Canadian province of British Columbia, David Eby said Thursday he will introduce legislation that places tolls on commercial trucks traveling from the Lower 48 to Alaska. The plan is part of British Columbia’s response to President Donald Trump’s shifting Canadian tariff proposals. Speaking in Victoria, Eby said the law would empower the province to charge fees to commercial trucks passing through British Columbia en route to Alaska. This move has sparked concern from Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, who hopes federal governments resolve tariff issues before provincial measures escalate.
Tolls could significantly affect two sectors: fresh produce, of which Alaska relies heavily on trucked deliveries, and the oil industry. While most Alaska-bound freight goes by ocean, trucks transport high-value goods that must move quickly. Eby’s plan also includes directives to halt purchasing American products where possible and to stop provincial liquor stores from selling alcohol produced in states like Alaska. Additionally, he aims to reduce internal trade barriers among Canadian provinces and pass legislation allowing swift responses to Trump’s orders.
Trump has repeatedly proposed a 25% tariff on Canada, but delayed it again Thursday for a month. In turn, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau imposed retaliatory tariffs, while provinces introduced their own measures. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said his province will impose a 25% surcharge on electricity headed for the United States. Elsewhere in Canada, in Yukon, Premier Ranj Pillai ordered liquor stores to stop buying from American companies and restricted U.S. businesses’ access to government contracts. Yukoners have even suggested banning Alaska athletes from the Arctic Winter Games and prohibiting Donald Trump Jr. from their territory.
Pillai noted that implementing tolls would require toll booths, staff, and new legislation. While Eby called out land-bound trucks, he did not mention cruise ships, a major driver of Alaska tourism. Cruise ships sailing to Alaska must stop in British Columbia, potentially giving the province further leverage. Many officials hope Canada and the U.S. can resolve their trade dispute quickly to avoid consequences that may harm both economies. Critics fear these moves could escalate friction between the two countries. Officials remain concerned about the broader economic ramifications of these measures.
