Saskatchewan’s trade minister is happy to see the new USMCA deal get finalized, but Jeremy Harrison still has some questions.

While the deal will be great because of the trade relationship between Saskatchewan and the U-S, Harrison says he has echoed some concerns to Ottawa about one area in particular.

“Softwood lumber and the dispute and tariffs going on there is concerning.” Harrison said Wednesday. “20 percent tariffs and anti-dumping duties are still in place on our softwood lumber exports to the U-S.  I spoke to the Minister of International Trade a couple of days ago and expressed our concern on the lack of progress the federal government has made in this area.  It’s one that I am obviously concerned about because I am from northern Saskatchewan.”

While happy that the deal has been finalized, Harrison says he will be more upbeat when both the US Senate and Canadian parliament give their stamp of approval.