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Mitigating the Impact of US Tariffs on BC Business

Take the US Tariffs Survey

President Trump has signed an executive order authorizing tariffs on Canadian imports to the US. This order has now been delayed for a minimum of 30 days as of February 3rd, 2025. The delay is in response to Canada committing to implementing the $1.3B border reinforcement plan announced several weeks ago.

What are the tariffs, what do they mean for your business, and how can you mitigate their potential impact?

President Trump is potentially implementing a 25% tariff on Canadian imports and a 10% tariff on imports from China. Energy resources from Canada will have a lower 10% tariff. Should these tariffs last, the BC government estimates that BC could see a cumulative loss of $69 billion in economic activity between 2025 and 2028. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Business Data Lab (BDL) estimates the tariffs would cost American consumers approximately $1,300 per person annually.

He's done this by invoking a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The US administration claims these measures are necessary to address the flow of illegal drugs and immigration, which it considers significant threats to national security. The president has also highlighted the trade deficit between the US and Canada as a reason for the tariffs.

Should US tariffs be imposed, Canada plans to impose retaliatory tariffs of 25% on US goods entering Canada. A tariff on $30B worth of goods was planned to take effect immediately on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025, with the remaining $125 billion to be implemented in 21 days, but that plan has now also been delayed. The tariffs will only apply to goods originating from the US. These countermeasures won't affect goods that are already on their way to Canada by the time the measures take effect.

The $30B list of tariffed goods includes items like juice, peanut butter, wine, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, cosmetics, and pulp/paper. The full list can be found here. 

Even if the tariffs are delayed indefinitely, this situation has shone a light on the Canadian economy. Identified needs are increased border security, incentivizing innovation, accelerating permitting and major building projects, and tearing down barriers to interprovincial trade, something the Chamber network has been advocating for for years. We also need to take action in reducing our reliance on a singular trading partner and instead, diversify our sourcing.

A statement from our Executive Director, Miriam Bozman: "As a community located close to the US border, we’ve always been deeply connected to both sides of the line. We share not just trade but a friendly respect for one another and some sharing families, employment, recreation, and more."

"It's been encouraging to see Canadians express strong pride in our country, businesses, and products. It's time to put action to those words. Our local stores, restaurants, and service providers are not just faceless entities—they are run by your neighbors, friends, and family members. These businesses contribute to the vibrancy of our community and are integral to our economic well-being. When you shop locally, you're investing in the people who live right here with you, strengthening the fabric of our shared home."

"While tariffs may impact the flow of goods and create uncertainty, we can take control of our local economy. We can choose to support the businesses that serve us day in and day out. Every dollar spent at a BC business has a far-reaching effect, helping to create jobs, sustain services, and keeping our community strong and resilient."

"Now, more than ever, let’s remember that kindness and compassion go a long way. Behind every storefront and every transaction are people working hard to support their families and serve their neighbors. Let’s show them the same support they’ve always shown us."

"Together, we can weather any storm and continue to build a thriving, connected community and economy."

What are we doing?
  • We've created a survey to hear from you on how these tariffs will impact your business. Please take a few minutes to complete it here. 
  • We've collected a list of resources below to help consumers and businesses prepare and respond to these tariffs, while also mitigating their impact.
  • BC Chamber Statement in Response to US Tariffs
  • Canadian Chamber Statement in Response to US Tariffs
  • Canadian Chamber Statement in Response to 30-day delay on tariffs
  • Canadian Chamber Report from Pan-Canadian Chamber Forum on US Tariffs & Federal Election Readiness
  • Contact us directly by calling, emailing, or submitting your concern to our Government Relations Committee here.
What can you do?
  • Read the BC Government's response and countermeasures to the tariff news here.
  • Global Affairs Canada: Read their document discussing the mutually beneficial impact of Canada-US Trade.
  • Support your local businesses and Chamber members by searching our Directory and support local!
  • Find Buy BC businesses throughout the province and support your BC market.
AS A BUSINESS:
  • Complete our survey on the impact tariffs would have on your business here. 
  • Join the 1,000+ businesses using the Buy BC logo and add it to your packaging and marketing materials—for free.

RESOURCES