Tariff Business Supports
Last updated: March 13, 2025
Latest News
March 12, 2025: The 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum are now in effect, with Canada implementing an equal 25% retaliatory tariff.
March 10, 2025, Ontario introduced a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to the U.S. as a countermeasure to the tariffs on Canadian goods, with the goal of supporting local industries and responding to U.S. trade actions.
March 7, 2025: Fighting for Canadian workers and businesses, News Release, Government of Canada
New: Export Development Canada (EDC), through the Trade Impact Program, deploys $5 billion to help Canadian exporters.
On March 6, 2025, the U.S. Administration announced a temporary suspension of tariffs on Canadian goods that comply with the Canadian-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) until April 2.
- Additionally, the tariff on potash, a key ingredient in fertilizer, has been reduced to 10% from 25%.
- A one-month exemption was also granted to automakers complying with USMCA.
These changes follow the March 4, 2025, decision to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian exports, a 10% tariff on energy products, and a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, set to take effect on March 12. In response, Canada has implemented immediate 25% counter-tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with an additional $125 billion in tariffs coming March 25.
Economic Development is committed to help businesses navigate tariffs, explore trade agreements, and expand globally. Share your concerns to connect with the right resources, supports, and partners.
Background: How We Got Here
On February 1, 2025, President Trump had initially imposed a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada, significantly impacting Canada’s economy by raising costs and disrupting deeply integrated supply chains essential to businesses in both countries. That same day, Prime Minister Trudeau announced a reciprocal 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods entering Canada. Both governments agreed to pause the tariffs for 30 days to allow for negotiations, but no resolution was reached.
Further escalating tensions, on February 11, 2025, the U.S. government announced a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, set to take effect on March 4. Canada supplies nearly 25% of the steel imported by the U.S. and close to 60% of its aluminum, making this a major concern for manufacturers and businesses in Kawartha Lakes that depend on cross-border trade.
Expanding into Global Markets
Expanding into Global Markets
Export Development Canada (EDC) helps Canadian businesses grow internationally with financing, insurance, and trade expertise. Their tools and insights reduce risk and open doors to new markets. Learn more at EDC’s website.
Expanding to New Markets
For businesses seeking new markets, the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service provides support in over 160 locations worldwide. With 15 ratified Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) covering 49 countries, Canadian businesses can access 1.5 billion consumers.
Finding Canadian Suppliers
Explore Canadian supply chain options through Canada’s business directories.
Funding to Grow Your Exports
CanExport SMEs program helps businesses expand into new international markets with funding for market research, marketing, and business development.
Applications open: March 13 - May 31, 2025.
Support for Business Growth
The Ministry of Economic Development Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT) offers programs and resources to help businesses scale locally and globally. Access funding, expert advice, and market expansion opportunities to Grow Your Business.
Resources and Support for Trade Challenge
Business Development Canada
Business Development Canada (BDC) Pivot to Grow Loan offers $500 million in new lending, providing financing, advice, and loan deferrals to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) financially impacted by tariffs.
Business Benefits Finder
Discover the Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED) Business Funding portal—a concierge service from the Government of Canada that helps businesses find available programs, services, and funding.
EI Work-sharing Program
The EI Work-Sharing Program offers benefits to employees who work reduced hours due to a decline in business activity beyond their employer’s control. Temporary flexibilities are now available.
Farm Credit Canada
Products Subject to Tariffs
A full list of U.S. products subject to Canada's 25% retaliatory tariffs is available on Canada.ca.
Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit
The Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit is designed to help entrepreneurs and support organizations navigate tariffs, this guide covers regulations, supply chain impacts, risk strategies, and expansion. Updated in real time.
Tracking U.S.-Canada Trade
Stay informed on the economic relationship between Canada and the U.S. with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce trade tracker.
Supporting Local Businesses
Kawartha Lakes' towns and villages feature a diverse network of businesses, artisans, and suppliers. Connect with local businesses and vendors.
Supporting Ontario-Made Products
Showcase and source Ontario-made products to help strengthen local businesses affected by U.S. tariffs. Apply for the Ontario Made Product Series for free.
Supporting Canadian-Made Products
Made in CA is a valuable resource showcasing Canadian-made products and businesses
Industry Associations
- Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC)
- Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME)
- Food and Beverage Ontario
- Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)
- Canadian Federation of Independent Business
- Automotive Industries Association of Canada
- Restaurants Canada
- Ontario Restaurant Hotel & Motel Association (ORHMA)
- Tourism Industry Association of Ontario
Kawartha Lakes Economic Development is here to support your business during these challenging times. Please reach out if you need assistance navigating imports or exports.
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