Why Buying Canadian Matters Amidst U.S. Tariff Threats
Tensions in international trade are increasing as United States President Donald Trump has made repeated threats that he will be imposing a 25% tariff on Canadian made goods imported into the United States.
Most recently at the World Economic Forum, Trump said that the United States does not need Canadian made cars, Canadian lumber, or Canadian oil and gas. He is basically threatening our country.
The US President has stated that Canada should become the 51st State, and there would be no tariffs.
This economic threat is part of what lead Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to announce his resignation, as Trudeau felt his unpopularity with both Canadian voters and with his Liberal caucus did not give him the ability to fight the US threat.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced he will be calling an early election to receive a mandate to fight the threat to Ontario. Ford has been very outspoken against the Trump tariff threats, and telling the US President that Canada is not for sale.
For Northwestern Ontario residents and Canadians at large, these developments underscore economic risk as forestry and mining as well as manufacturing jobs could be at risk.
While for many Canadians, fighting this may seem difficult, however it highlights the importance of buying Canadian-made products.
Supporting local businesses is not just patriotic—it helps safeguard our economy from global uncertainties.
What is a Tariff and Why Do They Matter?
A tariff is essentially a tax imposed by one country on goods imported from another. For example, if the U.S. imposes a tariff on Canadian lumber, American companies importing it would have to pay additional costs, making Canadian products less competitive in price.
The purpose of tariffs is often to protect domestic industries, but they can strain international trade relationships.
For Canada, where industries like forestry, agriculture, and automotive rely heavily on exports to the U.S., tariffs can have a significant impact on production, pricing, and jobs.
How a U.S. Tariff Could Impact Canadian Exports
The United States is Canada’s largest trading partner, with billions of dollars in goods exchanged annually. If tariffs were imposed:
- Canadian businesses exporting to the U.S. could face reduced demand due to higher prices.
- Local jobs in industries like lumber, steel, and agriculture might be affected.
- Consumers in both countries could see rising prices, further straining budgets.
Northwestern Ontario’s forestry sector, and mining sector, key economic drivers in Thunder Bay, and across the province could be particularly vulnerable, as the region heavily relies on U.S. markets for its products.
Supporting the Local Economy: Buy Canadian
In the face of tariff threats, Canadians can take proactive steps by choosing Canadian-made products. This simple act supports domestic industries, preserves jobs, and strengthens the economy. For residents in Thunder Bay, focusing on local alternatives can make a big difference.
Vacation OUTSIDE the USA! Staycations Help Locally!
Winter time many Canadians seek a break heading south. Maybe it is time to consider a more Canadian embrace of Winter. Learn downhill skiing, Loch Lomond and Mount Baldy offer packages. If you want to embrace the “vacation mode” maybe book a room at a local motel with a pool. There are options across Canada for great holiday even in winter.
If you are determined to head south, there are lots of options that don’t include Donald J. Trump’s USA.
Beat the Tariff Back: Top Canadian Alternatives to American Products
When shopping, start reading labels. Look for Canadian made products.
On social media there are some lists of products, but many are fairly confusing. For example one list says buy French’s Tomato ketchup over Heinz, but then says French’s Mustard is American. While Heinz closed their Canadian plant a couple of years ago, the company now says it is making ketchup in Canada once again.
The key is taking the time in the store, or instead of dead-zone scrolling social media to go online and research.
One brand to consider it Wildly Canadian which is available with a large variety of products including honey, cranberry juice concentrate, and a growing list of products.
Conclusions
By choosing Canadian products, especially during times of trade uncertainty, residents of Thunder Bay and all Canadians can play a pivotal role in sustaining the nation’s economy. Supporting local businesses is not only an act of solidarity but also a step toward resilience in the face of global challenges.
We could well be in for an economic battle, and some of the small ways as consumers we can do our part is in our purchases.
