Tariff Support

On Wednesday April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he was implementing country-specific tariffs ranging from 10 to 49 percent. The White House says that Canada and Mexico are exempt from the new reciprocal tariffs announced today. Goods imported under the existing continental trade deal, known as CUSMA, will not face tariffs, while those outside the deal will see a 10% tariff.

A 25% tariff on all “foreign-made automobiles” will come into effect on midnight Wednesday, April 2^nd. Canadian vehicles will be exempt until U.S. administration “establish(es) a process” to tax exclusively the non-American vehicle components of Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)-compliant products.

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on April 3, 2025 that Canada will be responding by matching the U.S.’s 25% tariffs on all vehicles imported from the United States.

Canada had already imposed a 25% reciprocal tariff on a list of steel products worth $12.6 billion and aluminum products worth $3 billion, as well as additional imported U.S. goods worth $14.2 billion, for a total of $29.8 billion. The list of additional products affected by counter tariffs includes tools, computers and servers, display monitors, sport equipment, and cast-iron products.

City of Peterborough Economic Development collaborates with all levels of government and industry organizations to help businesses navigate these changes and explore strategies for maintaining resilience, by connecting them with resources to mitigate tariff impacts, explore trade agreements, and identify new global opportunities. If you’re looking to expand beyond Canada or adapt to these new tariffs, reach out to learn how the below tools can support your export journey. If you have any questions please contact us at ecdev@peterborough.ca

Please note: Due to ongoing tariff updates, this webpage will be continuously monitored and updated as new information becomes available. For a timeline of events, the Financial Times has created a timeline tracking the trade dispute.

Updates

Trump's Tariffs - Latest on Canada-U.S. Trade Relations
Canada spared any new tariffs as Trump announces sweeping new country-specific levies
Trump announces 25% tariffs on vehicles imported to U.S., including from Canada
The Government of Canada Introduces New Employment Insurance Measures to Support Canadian Workers Impacted by Foreign Tariffs - March 24, 2025
Canada Responds to Unjustified U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Steel and Aluminum Products - March 12, 2025
List of Products from the United States Subject to 25% Tariffs - March 13, 2025
Canada Announces Retaliatory Tariffs on $29.8 Billion Worth of U.S. Goods - March 12, 2025
Statement by Mayor Jeff Leal regarding United States tariffs

Information and support for businesses

Local Tariff Toolkit

The Tariff Toolkit is the result of a collaborative effort between dedicated partners who recognized the growing need for clear, accessible trade resources right here in Peterborough. Developed through the shared expertise of local economic development teams and trade experts, this toolkit was designed to support businesses navigating the complexities of tariffs and global trade. With rising interest from local entrepreneurs and manufacturers in expanding to international markets, this resource equips businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to grow confidently beyond our borders.

Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit

The Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit is designed to aid entrepreneurs and support organizations in navigating the complexities of tariffs, and their impact on Canadian businesses. It provides a comprehensive overview of national and regional support organizations, tariff regulations, how they affect supply chains and pricing, strategies for mitigating risks, and further international expansion. This resource guide is being updated frequently and in real time.

Expanding into global markets with EDC

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 soon.

If your business imports these products, please let us know the quantities you are bringing in. We will work with Global Affairs Canada, provincial and federal agencies, and trade representatives to help you explore alternative sourcing options.

Resources for businesses facing trade uncertainty

Business Development Canada (BDC) offers tools to help businesses build resilience. More information is available on the BDC's website.

Canada Tariff Finder

The Canada Tariff Finder helps businesses check import and export tariffs for specific goods and markets, particularly in countries with which Canada has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

This tool provides:

General tariff rates applicable to all nations
Preferential rates under FTAs, including phase-out periods
Side-by-side tariff comparisons for up to three countries or products

The Canada Tariff Finder is a collaborative initiative by BDC, EDC, and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service of Global Affairs Canada.

Other resources

Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker: Business Data Lab - Examining our economic integration and the risks of tariffs

Government of Canada Tariff Remission Process - To seek an exception to the counter tariffs on goods coming into Canada from the U.S.

Ontario's Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem

The TrilliumGIS database, maintained by the Trillium Network, provides comprehensive data on Ontario's manufacturing sector, including:

Manufacturing Establishments
Supply chain connections
Business-to-business opportunities
Innovation partnerships

Funding & Financial Assistance

Canada's Employment Insurance (EI)'s Work-Sharing Program - The Work-Sharing is an adjustment program designed to help employers and employees avoid layoffs when there is a temporary reduction in the normal level of business activity that is beyond the control of the employer. It provides income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance benefits who work a temporarily reduced work while their employer recovers.
EDC Trade Impact Program - Export Development Canada (EDC) will offer $5 billion in new facilities over 2 years to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the challenges imposed by tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows, and barriers to expansion.
Funding that Helps Your Company Grow in Global Markets - CanExport SMEs program is accepting applications
Ontario Government Funding Opportunities - Financial support for businesses.
Pivot to Grow Loan - Business Development Canada (BDC) will offer $500 million in new lending. BDC's Pivot to Grow program will provide financing, advice and loan deferrals to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) financially impacted by the chill effects of potential or imposed U.S. tariffs.
Trade Disruption Customer Support Program - Farm Credit Canada (FCC) will offer $1 billion in new lending. This program features access to an additional credit line of up to $500,000 along with new term loans. FCC customers will have the option to defer principal payments for up to 12 months on current loans.

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500 George St. N.
Peterborough, ON
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Phone: 705-742-7777
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