Trump’s tariffs bad for Canadians and Americans

VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Greater Vancouver Board of Trade’s President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, made the following statement:   

“The United States is British Columbia’s most important trading partner. Canada is the main trading partner of 34 U.S. states – there is no doubt that these tariffs will hurt Americans and Canadians alike, burning a $1,000CAD hole in everyday people’s wallets, causing job losses, and hurting businesses on both sides of the border.”

"Canadian exports to the U.S. don’t just support trade—they create jobs, raise wages, and strengthen businesses on both sides of the border. Efficient cross-border supply chains make both countries more competitive and resilient to global shocks. Our ties go beyond the economic, we share families, culture, and values and it is unwise to dissolve this centuries old partnership.

“We must act to avoid the negative impact of these tariffs and invite the United States to work collaboratively on issues such as border security and eliminating the devastating impacts of fentanyl on our communities.

“These tariffs must serve as catalyst for action in British Columbia and Canada. We must do whatever is necessary to grow our economy. By speeding up permitting, getting projects built, diversifying our markets, adopting new technologies, and tearing down interprovincial trade barriers we can make our economy more resilient and less dependent on the whims of the US administration.

“All levels of government must be laser focused on implementing policies that focus on growing our economy, supporting the sale of B.C. products, and incentivizing investment into the province.”

Many of our members will be impacted by these tariffs. In response, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has put together a list of resources to help businesses navigate these tumultuous times and launched a survey to gather real-life stories and data about how these tariffs will impact B.C. businesses.

Tariff Business Resources
Tariff Survey

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada's leading business association, engaging our members to inform public policy at all levels of government and empowering them to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.'s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events platforms in the country, providing a stage for national and international thought leaders to enlighten B.C.'s business leaders. 

Media contact:
Federico Cerani
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com