Some Ontario businesses are preparing for tariffs following unsuccessful trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. A 50 per cent tariff has been imposed on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods, including steel, aluminum, and auto exports. Kimberly Turner-Briscoe, the president of a Scarborough-based steel fastener supplier, has faced challenges navigating the trade war, leading to business adjustments and staff layoffs. Despite her disappointment with the tariffs, especially Canada’s 25 per cent tariffs on fasteners, Turner-Briscoe commended the decision to walk away from an unfavorable deal.
The newly tariffed items make up about nine percent of Ontario’s total exports to the U.S. in 2025, according to Statistics Canada. Prime Minister Carney criticized the U.S. for proposing terms that were detrimental to Canada’s interests and announced retaliatory tariffs across various sectors, including dairy, steel, paper, and electronics.
Unifor national president Lana Payne supported the government’s stance, emphasizing the need to protect Canadian workers. She highlighted the excessive demands made by the Trump administration which led Canadian negotiators to withdraw from the negotiations. Payne stressed the importance of unity among Canadians to confront the challenges posed by the trade dispute.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed relief that the trade deal was not signed and encouraged provincial solidarity. He reassured Ontarians that despite the tough times ahead, Ontario’s diverse economy would endure and support affected workers. Giles Gherson of the Toronto Region Board of Trade warned that the tariffs would impact jobs and investments in the region and urged coordinated action against the tariffs.
Local leaders like Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses and standing firm against unfavorable trade deals. Meanwhile, experts predict significant costs for Canadians due to the trade war, including higher prices, unemployment, and potential business closures. Despite the challenges, there are hopes for a return to the negotiation table to secure a more favorable deal for Canada and Ontario.