On March 4, 2025, the United States implemented sweeping tariffs on Canadian exports, imposing a 25% duty on all goods and an additional 10% tariff on energy products. Within one day, a reprieve was announced for all auto manufacturers operating in North America under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico agreement (CUSMA). Another day later, the U.S. announced a pause on goods covered under CUSMA—applying to about half of Mexican goods and 63% of Canadian imports—until April 2. Then on March 7, 2025, President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on Canadian dairy and lumber products being implemented as soon as today or early next week.

These measures add significant pressure and confusion on Canadian businesses, especially for small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To help Ontario’s business community, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce is gathering information you need to help your business or community adapt and navigate these imposed tariffs.