Canada-U.S.

Trade and tariff Resource Hub

The tariff threats from the United States have raised concerns among Hamilton residents, our local businesses community, and indeed among all Canadians. Amid a time of uncertainty and economic anxiety, the Hamilton Economic Development team is here to listen while providing insights and resources.

Like many Southern Ontario cities, Hamilton’s economy is deeply integrated with the United States. Significant trade and investment flow between our nations and through the Great Lakes area. The economic development team will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Contact a member of our team

Message from Hamilton’s Economic Development Office

We understand that the tariffs imposed by the United States on Canada have raised concerns among our businesses and residents. We want to assure you that Hamilton’s Economic Development Office is actively monitoring the situation and working closely with federal and provincial partners to mitigate any potential impacts and advocate for Hamilton’s interests.

The situation is evolving, and we are navigating the economic and political implications of these changes. Economic Development is committed to providing weekly tariff updates and sharing relevant local information on tariff responses. The results of the Tariff Impact Questionnaire are currently being reviewed and analyzed by Economic Development staff with the goal of a public report in early April. We encourage all Hamilton residents to engage with trusted local and national journalism for real-time updates on trade negotiations.

CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST UPDATE

For small business support, visit the Hamilton Business Centre.

Canadian Government Launches Business Supports

On March 7, 2025, the Canadian government announced measures to protect businesses and workers.

“Earlier this week, the United States administration imposed unjustified tariffs on Canada, disrupting a successful trading partnership and raising costs for Americans and Canadians alike. As the federal government, we will use every tool at our disposal so Canadian businesses and workers can weather this storm. We will defend Canadian jobs.”

The government says it’s ensuring Canadian companies “have the liquidity they need through this turbulent time” by:

Launching the Trade Impact Program through Export Development Canada. The program will deploy $5 billion over two years, starting this year, to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the economic challenges imposed by the tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows, and barriers to expansion.
Making $500 million in favourably priced loans available through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support impacted businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs and companies in their supply chains. Businesses will also benefit from advisory services in areas such as financial management and market diversification.
Providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to reduce financial barriers for the Canadian agriculture and food industry. This lending offer will help address cash flow challenges so businesses can adjust to a new operating environment and continue to supply the high-quality agricultural and food products that Canadians rely on.

Additionally, the government updated the Investment Canada Act Guidelines to prevent harmful takeovers through foreign investments and introduced temporary flexibilities to the EI Work-Sharing Program to help workers retain their jobs.

Click here to read the official announcement.

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