Yukon premier considers limiting ties with Elon Musk in next phase of tariff response

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This article was published 05/03/2025 (211 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai says his government is considering limiting support for companies tied to Elon Musk as part of a potential second phase of action in response to U.S. tariffs.

Pillai says in a statement in response to U.S. tariffs that Yukon’s new measures could come into effect in the days and weeks ahead if the U.S. doesn’t see “the error in their ways”.

Pillai’s statement delivered in the cabinet office in Whitehorse comes a day after his government announced it was halting new orders for U.S. liquor and developing an assistance program to help Yukoners adapt to the uncertain economic environment.

Pillai says his government has received numerous suggestions from Yukoners about how to handle the trade conflict, including the idea of limiting support for businesses linked to Musk, a prominent supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump.

He says public servants are already working on the suggestion although he doesn’t “want to get ahead” of himself.

Pillai also used the address to tell Alaskans that their friendship is valued and their visits welcomed, but Trump’s action “directly threatens our way of life.”

“We have to stand up for our country, and we have to protect our economy,” Pillai said on Wednesday. 

Last month, Pillai said his government was considering halting use of Starlink, a high-speed internet service owned by Musk.

He said Wednesday that the government was working with the Yukon Chamber of Commerce and provincial and territorial partners to break down internal and international trade barriers, making it easier for local businesses to sell in non-U.S. markets. 

“This is a small territory, but what we’re doing is important. We’re showing solidarity to our fellow Canadians, while also supporting local workers, businesses and our way of life,” said Pillai. “Canada is not for sale, and we won’t back down.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2025.