The general manager of the Stratford and District Chamber of Commerce said the tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump has created economic uncertainty.
Aaron Martin said local businesses and employees are rightfully concerned.
“I think people are nervous about it. It could cost people jobs. It will obviously put an increased cost on goods when it comes down to it.”
Trump says he’ll impose 25 per cent penalties on all Canadian imports except energy with electricity, natural gas, and oil getting a 10 per cent surcharge.
Ottawa plans to retaliate with immediate tariffs on $30 billion dollars worth of American imports.
Martin said he has already heard about companies discussing possible layoffs in the near future and contracts and future sales could be impacted.
The general manager said the local chamber is meeting with the City of Stratford Monday evening, and they are communicating with their provincial and national chamber colleagues.
Martin is heartened at the increased interest in supporting local and Canadian-made and produced goods.
“We really want people to send a message with their dollars. So if you are buying Canadian products, you are sending that message that way.”
Martin said the chamber supports the provincial government’s decision to remove American alcohol from the shelves and promote buying locally-produced alcohol.
There is hope a deal can be reached and the sooner, the better, Martin said.
“If we can continue our prosperous relationship as before that would be fantastic.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to talk to Trump again on Monday afternoon.
U.S. President Donald Trump also said today he is pausing implementation of tariffs on Mexican imports for a month.
