Surrey mayor backs federal response to Canada-U.S. trade dispute

Surrey's mayor says the city supports the federal government's response to the latest Canada-U.S. trade dispute and believes Ottawa was right to reject what the city described as an unfair agreement.

In a statement, the mayor said the United States' 50 per cent tariffs on billions of dollars in Canadian goods will hurt workers, businesses and families on both sides of the border. The statement said Canada should not be pressured by tariff threats into accepting a deal that harms its economy or independence.

The mayor said Surrey has an important role as one of Canada's largest and fastest-growing cities, with major industries, businesses and trade routes. City staff have been asked to review procurement processes and identify opportunities to support Canadian businesses, products and workers where possible.

The city said it will work with federal and provincial partners and support Surrey businesses and residents whose jobs and livelihoods may be at risk. It added that it values a strong relationship with the United States, but said that relationship must be based on fairness, trust and respect for Canada's independence.