Local businesses surveyed amid Trump tariff threats

Thunder Bay — Community partners are working to support local businesses in the face of a potential tariff war between Canada and the United States.

The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission and the Chamber of Commerce announced Wednesday that they are compiling a list of city exporters and inviting them to participate in an online survey.

Among other questions, the survey asks what products they sell in the U.S., how President Trump's proposed 25% tariffs could affect them, where they sell in Canada, and how interprovincial trade barriers are holding them back.

Jamie Taylor, CEO of the Ontario Community Economic Development Commission, said understanding local challenges will help with communication with the federal and Ontario governments.

"We can collect this information and discuss these issues with both governments, so that when they look at relief packages or plans to help businesses transition, we can share specific information about businesses in our community, and hopefully that will have an impact on the services provided."

Taylor said if Trump ultimately imposes tariffs, "Thunder Bay will not be spared. We will feel the impact."

She said the forestry sector is currently the biggest concern, but added: "There are also smaller manufacturing companies, and some companies you wouldn't even think of. It could just be a local store shipping a large volume of goods to the U.S. It's actually quite surprising."

Taylor said the commission will continue to provide information about programs and support to local businesses.

She said the commission has already heard from some companies whose supply chains (even basic items like bags) come from the U.S., and is trying to help them find suppliers locally or elsewhere in Canada.

"We can provide them with advisory services. We're looking at whether there are other things, like whether we should launch a program. Through these discussions, we hope to ensure that what we do is tailored to their actual needs, rather than making assumptions."

The City of Thunder Bay is also stepping up its outreach to local businesses.

City Manager John Collin said: "We are also compiling a list of our U.S. suppliers and vendors, and will carefully consider options for U.S.-awarded contract services, supplies, and equipment as the situation develops."

Meanwhile, there are also calls for residents to prioritize local businesses and buy Canadian-made products.

Chamber of Commerce President Charla Robinson said: "Our 'Choose Canada First' program aims to showcase the excellent local businesses that drive our economic development."

You can find Canadian-made products at madeinca.ca.

Source: https://www.tbnewswatch.com/local-news/local-businesses-surveyed-in-face-of-trump-tariff-threat-10187691