As the change in trade relations between the United States and Canada unfolds, the City of Brantford is ready to support businesses and residents through this period of economic uncertainty.
If tariffs on Canadian goods exported to the U.S. remain at 25% for an extended period, the city will likely face a significant impact, as many local businesses rely heavily on the U.S. market for their products.
In response to the United States imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian goods, the Canadian federal government has announced several retaliatory measures, including a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. imports, effective February 4, 2025.
The initial list includes items such as beer, wine, bourbon, fruits, vegetables, perfume, clothing, and shoes. If the U.S. maintains its tariff on Canadian goods, Canada is expected to publish an additional list in three weeks, targeting passenger vehicles, trucks (including electric vehicles), steel and aluminum products, certain fruits and vegetables, and aerospace products, covering imports valued at C$125 billion.
Both the federal and provincial governments have stressed that Canada’s response will be a united one. At the local level, the City of Brantford is preparing a coordinated approach to support individuals and businesses that could be most affected should the tariffs remain in place for a prolonged period.
The City’s Economic Development staff and the Mayor’s Office are actively monitoring developments while collaborating with the local Member of Parliament (MP) and Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP), as well as provincial and federal counterparts. The City is also engaging directly with local businesses to assess potential impacts and provide timely support.
Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis has reassured residents and the business community of the City’s proactive leadership during this period of uncertainty.
“Brantford has a proud history of overcoming economic challenges, as demonstrated during the recent pandemic. We’ve proven that our community is resilient, united, and stronger when we work together. That’s why we’ve been collaborating closely with key partners for several weeks and are prepared to act swiftly in providing support in any way we can to those businesses most affected,” Davis said.
To ensure businesses remain informed, the City’s Economic Development team has launched a dedicated online resource for U.S. trade news and updates at advantagebrantford.ca/ustrade. Local businesses concerned about trade impacts are encouraged to contact the City’s Economic Development team directly at 519-759-4150 or via email at advantage@brantford.ca.
Residents and businesses are also encouraged to buy local and prioritize Canadian-made products whenever possible as part of a broader effort to mitigate the economic impact.
Additionally, the City’s Business Resource Centre (BRC) continues to provide advice and support to local small businesses.
The BRC offers training, consultation, and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and can assist companies in exploring funding programs available from different levels of government. Those interested in learning more can visit Brantford.ca/BRC.
The City of Brantford remains committed to supporting local businesses and residents by providing timely information, resources, and solutions to navigate the evolving trade landscape.
