premier says businesses can tap into $1.5 billion fund if U.S. escalates tariffsFunding to offset tariffsPhoto: The Canadian Press British Columbia Premier David Eby answers a question from reporters as he, fellow premiers and Prime Minister Mark Carney hold a closing press conference at the First Ministers Meetings in Charlottetown on Thursday, July 23, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darren CalabreseBritish Columbia Premier David Eby says local businesses will have access to a federal emergency fund if the United States follows through on new tariff threats. could apply to a support fund worth $1.5 billion. The premier says Carney has told him the fund "has not been exhausted," and he expects that there "should be more than enough in that regional fund," should the United States impose the threatened tariffs on Aug. 19. The premier says he also spoke during the meeting about B.C.