- In 2025, there were over 52 different changes to the American tariff and tax code, causing uncertainty that has led some businesses to freeze major investment decisions, delay hiring, or hold off on launching new products.
- Rig Hand closed a packaging facility in Texas due to tariff concerns, losing contracts in Arizona and Alaska, and has since shifted focus to the Canadian market and other countries, making its first shipments to Japan.
- The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that 40% of small exporters sell products included on the tariff list, and one-third of those businesses expect their sales to fall by 50% or more.
- Small business owner Onisto stated that tariffs force cost decisions that shrink margins, describing it as a 'domino effect.'
- Stewart expressed frustration over tariff unpredictability, stating, 'We can't run our businesses with that amount of uncertainty,' and emphasized the need to know the path forward.
- Trump remarked that Canada 'wants the benefits' of being a U.S. state 'without being one,' as the trade dispute escalates.
- Ottawa has promised additional support measures for businesses and workers affected by the trade war, with Carney indicating that more details will be announced soon.
- Ontario Premier Doug Ford supported the federal government's decision to walk away from a proposed deal, stating it would have negatively impacted Ontario's auto, steel, and manufacturing sectors.
Canadian businesses are facing turmoil as U.S. President Donald Trump's 50% tariffs on a range of goods took effect, following failed trade negotiations.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business reports that 40% of small exporters are affected, with one-third expecting sales to drop by 50% or more.3
Business owners express frustration over the uncertainty created by fluctuating tariffs. "We can’t run our businesses with that amount of uncertainty there," said Stewart, a business owner who had to close a facility in Texas due to tariff concerns.5
Prime Minister Mark Carney criticized the tariffs as a 'miscalculation' and vowed to respond with dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs. He stated that Canadian negotiators walked away from talks due to 'unacceptable' U.S. demands.
Trump, in a recent post, claimed Canada wants U.S. benefits without being a state, further complicating relations.
As the situation evolves, Ottawa promises additional support for affected businesses, with more details expected soon.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford supports the federal decision to reject the proposed deal, emphasizing its potential harm to Ontario's manufacturing sectors.8
“The Canadian Federation of Independent Business says 40% of small exporters sell tariff-listed products, with one-third expecting sales to drop 50% or more. Rig Hand closed a Texas facility, losing contracts in Arizona and Alaska, but has since made first shipments to Japan.”
Global News
