Navigating the Canada-U.S.A. Tariffs: Supporting North Durham Businesses

The recent U.S. decision to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian imports has created economic uncertainty for businesses across North Durham and beyond. Rising costs, disrupted supply chains, and shifting trade policies demand immediate attention from local businesses. The North Durham Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing the resources and guidance necessary to help our business community navigate these challenges effectively.

The Impact on North Durham Businesses

The new tariffs affect several key industries in our region, including:

• Manufacturing – Increased costs on raw materials and parts used in automotive and aerospace production.
• Agriculture and Food Processing – Tariffs on exports are expected to impact farmers and food producers.
• Retail and Small Businesses – Higher costs for imported goods will lead to tighter margins and price increases for consumers.
• Energy & Resources – A 10% tariff on energy imports creates additional uncertainty for regional suppliers.

  Please refer to the List of U.S. Products Subject to Tariffs for a detailed breakdown of Canada’s current retaliatory tariffs.

Official Responses to the Tariff Dispute

Canadian Chamber of Commerce Statement (March 4, 2025)

“Today’s reckless decision by the U.S. administration is forcing Canada and the U.S. toward recessions, job losses and economic disaster… The U.S. government’s self-defeating tariff policy disregards decades of success and trillions in trade… Canada is resource and talent rich. Our economic future is ours to determine — it’s time to join our economic strategy with concrete action to not only minimize the short-term damage but to chart a more prosperous path long-term.”

— Candace Laing, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Ontario Chamber of Commerce Statement (March 4, 2025)

“The U.S. president’s reckless, unprovoked trade war against Canada will lower the standard of living for every American and every Canadian… The fastest way out of this madness requires a firm Canadian response coupled with an offer for dialogue. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has urged our provincial and federal governments to support businesses and protect investment… This is a time to prioritize competitiveness over complacency, diversification over dependence, and resilience over resistance to change.”

— Daniel Tisch, President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Government Programs and Support for Affected Businesses

To help businesses offset the impact of tariffs, federal and provincial programs provide financial relief and strategic guidance:

• Business Benefits Finder – Explore government funding, tax credits, and trade support programs.
• FedDev Ontario – Funding for innovation, export development, and economic growth.
• Information for Exporters – Resources to help Ontario businesses that export goods
• Canadian Trade Commissioner Service – Expert trade advisory and market expansion support
• Exporting to the United States – Resources to support Canadian exporters to U.S. during tariff challenges
• Process for requesting remission of tariffs that apply on certain goods from the U.S.

Strategies to Mitigate Tariff Impacts

To remain competitive, businesses in North Durham should consider the following strategies:

1. Diversify Supply Chains – Reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers by exploring alternative markets.
2. Leverage Trade Agreements – Utilize Canada’s existing trade deals to access new opportunities.
3. Optimize Operations – Improve efficiency to lower production and sourcing costs.
4. Stay Informed – Follow trade and economic updates from trusted sources such as the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Trade Hub.

Local Resources for North Durham Businesses

North Durham businesses have access to specialized support to navigate these challenges:

• Shopping Local in Durham Region – A guide for shopping local and supporting Durham Region businesses.
• Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) – Free business consulting and strategic planning assistance.
• Invest Durham Local Food – A resource to residents of Durham Region about where local food can be accessed

Moving Forward as a Business Community

The North Durham Chamber of Commerce stands with local businesses during this period of economic uncertainty. By working together and leveraging the available resources, we can minimize the impact of these tariffs and build a stronger, more resilient business community.

If your business is affected by the tariffs, we encourage you to connect with us. Let’s navigate these challenges together and secure a prosperous future for North Durham businesses.