On September 7, 2026, Quebec Premier François Legault announced that he will pause the campaign of Coalition Avenir Québec member Fréchette and convene a cabinet meeting to address the federal government’s preparation of retaliatory tariffs on United States goods. The premier’s decision was reported as a direct response to Canada’s plan to impose new duties on a range of American products.
The federal strategy includes tariffs that could vary from 15% to 50% depending on the category of goods. The measures are set to target items such as dairy products, steel, copper and certain beauty products. The range of duties reflects the spectrum of tariffs Canada is ready to apply as it moves forward with its counter‑measure plan.
Canadian officials have described the tariffs as a reaction to recent trade measures taken by the United States, although the specific U.S. actions were not detailed in the announcement. The upcoming cabinet meeting will focus on how the province will respond to the federal plan and what impact the duties may have on Quebec’s economy and its trade links with the United States.
The Coalition Avenir Québec government will use the meeting to assess the implications for local industries and to coordinate any provincial response. By pausing his campaign, Fréchette is aligning his activities with the premier’s timetable, allowing the cabinet to discuss the issue without the distraction of an ongoing electoral effort. The outcome of the meeting is expected to shape Quebec’s stance as the federal tariffs move toward implementation.