The Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant has launched an information tracker to support local businesses in navigating the uncertainty surrounding proposed U.S. tariffs.
The new online resource, hosted on the Chamber’s website, aims to share best practices and responses from the Canadian business community while facilitating coordination among local, provincial, and national stakeholders.
“The Chamber Board of Directors has been monitoring the growing economic uncertainty with the United States since November,” said Chamber President John Oddi.
“We are aware of the potential impact of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods exported to the U.S. if implemented for an extended period and remain extremely concerned about the uncertainty and confusion being created for businesses and consumers in Brantford-Brant.”
The Chamber is actively engaging with economic development officials, municipal leaders from the City of Brantford and the County of Brant, and representatives from the Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
The organization is also working with provincial chambers and premiers to advance strategies aimed at mitigating economic risks, including efforts to reduce interprovincial trade barriers as part of a broader “Team Canada” approach.
Amid ongoing negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau have agreed to a 30-day pause on proposed tariffs following discussions on border security and fentanyl trafficking.
Trump had previously announced a 25% tariff on Canadian imports and a 10% tariff on energy exports, prompting Canada to plan retaliatory measures on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods.
The agreement delays these trade actions while Canada implements enhanced border enforcement measures. However, Trump stated that he remains open to imposing tariffs if Canada does not meet his expectations, emphasizing that the 30-day pause will determine whether a final economic deal can be reached.
Local businesses seeking guidance on trade-related concerns can contact the Chamber at 519-753-2617 ext. 28 or via email at chamber@chamberbrantfordbrant.com. Additional information is available on the Chamber’s website.
