U.S. deems Bill 96 a trade barrier
The reform of Quebec’s French language charter, commonly called Bill 96, has been listed as a trade barrier by the United States, and immediately it has become a hot potato in the federal election campaign.
Mark Carney says he has a problem with the law because of its dependence on the notwithstanding clause, and not – as alleged by the Bloc – because he sides with Trump against Quebec. But it makes a good leverage point.
dhomas 16:03 on 2025-04-01 Permalink
The Americans are looking for reasons to justify their bullshit tariffs and “other consequences”. How would they react if we started shipping everything they buy from us with labels in French? Do US companies not operate in Mexico in Spanish? It’s nonsensical and anyone capable of critical thinking will see right through it, just like the fentanyl justification.
On the other hand, François Legault saying “C’est non-négociable!” and trying to look strong is a bit rich. French is non-negotiable, but let’s cave and give a billion dollars to Starlink. Weak sauce, Frankie, weak sauce.
Ian 16:34 on 2025-04-01 Permalink
It’s actually kind of interesting that this is being presented as a formal complaint, though. For years many businesses have refused to come to Quebec or in some cases even ship here because of the French packaging and labelling requirements. I know, I know, screw ’em if they can’t comply with local custom, but hey whatever. The Bloc, Carney, Legault, Trump et al can go screw themeselves too, as far as I’m concerned.
Joey 10:07 on 2025-04-02 Permalink
This feels like a tempest in a teapot, no? The US says, This law impedes our ability to do business in Quebec (I mean, this is insane given the context, but whatever LOL). Quebec says, Exactly! And we all move on…