As we enter the month of April, the uncertainty of spring weather mirrors the turbulent tides of tariffs and cross-border trade. With a new wave of tariffs and counter-tariffs likely rolling out this week, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce has developed this newsletter as a resource hub to assist and support members.
As we enter the month of April, the uncertainty of spring weather mirrors the turbulent tides of tariffs and cross-border trade.
With a new wave of tariffs and counter-tariffs likely rolling out this week, the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce has developed this newsletter as a resource hub to assist and support members.
Ontario Chamber: The Ontario Chamber of Commerce's Navigating U.S. Tariffs page serves as a comprehensive resource for Ontario businesses to understand and adapt to the U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian exports. It offers up-to-date information on tariff timelines, official statements from governmental bodies, and strategic guidance to help businesses mitigate the impact of these trade measures. This resource is especially valuable for small to medium-sized enterprises seeking to navigate the complexities introduced by these tariffs.
Canadian Chamber: The Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker is an interactive tool developed by the Business Data Lab to illustrate the depth of economic integration between Canada and the United States. It provides insights and visualizations of trade flows and economic connections at both national and regional levels, highlighting key statistics such as $1.3 trillion in annual two-way trade and the fact that Canada is the top export destination for 34 U.S. states. The tracker emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear and stable trade policies to support jobs and economic growth on both sides of the border.
GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES TO SUPPORT AFFECTED BUSINESSES
The Canadian government has announced measures to protect businesses and workers affected by these tariffs, including:
Trade Impact Program: Deploying $5 billion over two years through Export Development Canada (EDC) to help exporters reach new markets and navigate economic challenges.
Favorable Loans: Making $500 million in favourably priced loans available through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to support impacted businesses and their supply chains.
Agriculture and Food Industry Support: Providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada (FCC) to reduce financial barriers for the agriculture and food industry.
FINANCIAL RELIEF: REMISSION OF TARIFF REQUESTS
A remission framework has been established to provide transitional relief for importers affected by countervailing tariffs. Businesses affected by the new tariffs can apply forremission, which provides temporary relief by allowing exemptions or refunds under specific circumstances, such as supply chain disruptions or lack of alternative sources. The Canadian government will evaluate requests on a case-by-case basis. Further details on the remission framework, including the application process and eligibility criteria for relief.
EXPANDED SPECIAL MEASURES TO THE EI WORK-SHARING PROGRAM
The Government of Canada's Work-Sharing Program helps employers and employees avoid layoffs during temporary business downturns. Through a three-party agreement with Service Canada, employees reduce their working hours and share available work while receiving Employment Insurance (EI) benefits. Special measures from March 7, 2025, to March 6, 2026, extend agreements to 76 weeks and waive the cooling-off period. Employers can apply at least 10 business days before the start date. Learn more here.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
For further information and support, consider the following resources:
Farm Credit Canada (FCC): Supports the agriculture and food industry with financing and resources.
STANDING UP FOR OUR MEMBERS
The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce has undertaken several initiatives to address tariffs and support its members:
The Future of Cross-Border Trade Forum - The First 100 Days of Trump: The Chamber, in partnership with Hamilton Economic Development, is hosting an event on Thursday, May 1 at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Join top business leaders, policymakers, and experts to explore the volatile Canada-U.S. trade landscape and economic policy in the first 90 days of the Trump administration. Gain insights from keynote speakers and panellists and shape the future of business in our city. Click here for tickets.
Trade Mission to Washington, D.C.: In March 2025, the Chamber participated in a trade mission to Washington, D.C., led by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The delegation engaged with key decision-makers to discuss challenges in supply chains and uncertainties stemming from proposed tariffs, aiming to strengthen Canada-U.S. trade relations and enhance supply chain resilience.
Opinion Piece in The Spec: Read Hamilton Chamber President & CEO Greg Dunnett's opinion piece in the Hamilton Spectator regarding the trade mission to Washington D.C.
Cross-Border Collaboration: In January 2025, the Chamber united with counterparts from key cross-border regions, including the Buffalo-Niagara Partnership, Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce, Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, and Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce. Together, they issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship and advocating for the removal of trade barriers to ensure a stable environment for businesses.
Advocacy and Policy Engagement: The Chamber has been actively involved in advocating for Hamilton's business community, working closely with federal, provincial, and municipal partners to address emerging challenges posed by tariffs. This includes participation in the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Manufacturing and Value Chains Committee and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce's Ontario Business & Trade Leadership Coalition, focusing on developing solutions and policies to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs on local businesses.
We are actively monitoring developments and providing timely updates and resources to our members. Above all, stay informed and assess how these changes may affect their operations and strategic planning.
- The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce
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