The United States has imposed new tariffs on Canadian imports—25% on Canadian goods and 10% on energy exports. These measures, originally set to take effect on February 4, 2025, were delayed but are now in force. While we, along with the Canadian business community, had hoped the delay would lead to a reversal, businesses must now navigate the significant implications of these trade barriers.
To support businesses, particularly SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), we’ve compiled key resources, expert insights, and practical tools to help mitigate the impact and identify strategic opportunities.
This page is regularly updated with new information and programming as it becomes available.
Weathering the Storm - A Canadian SME Playbook for Navigating US-Canada Tariffs
This is Not Just Theory – It’s Your Survival Guide.
This playbook is your concise, actionable guide to navigating this turbulent period. It’s designed specifically for Canadian SME leaders who need immediate, low-cost strategies to mitigate the impact of these tariffs and emerge stronger. Split into five modules, the playbook covers:
Module 1: Learn how to protect your cash flow through immediate forecasting, cost control, and working capital optimization.
Module 2: Strategies to adjust your costs, pricing, and explore duty-drawback programs to maintain profitability.
Module 3: Diversifying your suppliers and explore alternative sourcing options.
Module 4: Information on implementing lean methodologies and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Module 5: Understand how to optimize payment terms and Incoterms.
List of products from the U.S. subject to 25% tariffs
- The webpage includes a detailed list of U.S. imports that may be impacted, organized by Harmonized System (HS) codes, aligning with Canada’s Customs Tariff Schedule to specify which products will be subject to the new 25% tariff measures.
- A free tool that allows businesses to quickly look up tariff rates for specific products and countries where Canada has a Free Trade Agreement. Users can access tariff information even without an HS code, making it easier to estimate costs for international trade.
- A searchable database that helps businesses find trade data by product using the Harmonized System (HS) code. It provides insights into import/export trends, key markets, and trade flows to support informed decision-making.
How are the Tariffs impacting your business? Take our survey!
The World Trade Centre Toronto is gathering insights from business leaders to better understand the challenges ahead. Your feedback will help inform our advocacy efforts and provide valuable insights to policymakers and industry partners.
Government of Canada: Navigating U.S. Tariff Challenges
- This webpage offers insights on trade and investment with the U.S., including market trends, key policy updates, and opportunities to support cross-border business growth to help businesses navigate the Canada-U.S. economic landscape.
RBC Trade Hub: Building a Resilient Economy
- Explore RBC's Trade Hub for insights on strengthening Canada’s economy and North American trade. This resource offers expert analysis, reports, and strategies to help businesses navigate global trade challenges and opportunities.
- Access comprehensive insights into the U.S. market, including economic trends, regulatory changes, and sector-specific opportunities. This information helps Canadian businesses navigate the complexities of exporting to the U.S.
- Stay informed about upcoming international trade events, missions, and networking opportunities hosted by the Government of Ontario to support exporters.
BDC: Resources for Canadian businesses facing U.S. tariffs
- Access valuable guidance for businesses affected by U.S. tariffs, including a cash flow calculator to assess financial impacts.
We provide expert consulting services to help businesses diversify their export strategies. Our offerings include export readiness assessments, market research, export plan development, and guidance on CanExport Grant applications. Our team of Certified International Trade Professionals (CITP) is here to support you at every stage of your international expansion.
For personalized assistance, contact us at wtc@bot.com.
