Our Statement on Savvy Digital Service Tax (DST) Decision

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce commends the Government of Canada for eliminating Canada’s Digital Services Tax (DST), while at the same time helping to secure the end of Section 899, the so-called U.S. “revenge tax.” Both measures were counterproductive for business and trade negotiations.

As the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has argued since the beginning, the decision to eliminate the DST makes sense. This tax would have fallen on Canadian consumers, businesses, and investors in the form of higher costs and hurt our economy at a critical time. And removing it moves us one step closer to a renewed, reliable trade deal with the U.S. Administration that will help to secure and grow the already incredible $3.6 billion of trade a day between our countries.

In the midst of complex, live negotiations, credit is due to Canada’s team, including Prime Minister Carney, Minister Champagne, Minister LeBlanc, and Ambassador Hillman among so many others, for their leadership at a pivotal moment for our country.

Both sides must pave the road ahead with goodwill and incremental progress. The promise of a competitive, strong North American economic alliance is worth fighting for, and Canadian businesses are ready to do their part.

• David Pierce, Vice President of Government Relations, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

About the Canadian Chamber of Commerce — The Future of Business Success 

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is Canada’s largest and most activated business network — representing over 400 chambers of commerce and boards of trade and more than 200,000 business of all sizes, from all sectors of the economy and from every part of the country — working to create the conditions for our collective success. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce is the undisputed champion and catalyst for the future of business success. From working with government on economy-friendly policy to providing services that inform commerce and enable trade, we give each of our members more of what they need to succeed: insight into markets, competitors and trends, influence over the decisions and policies that drive business success, and impact on business and economic performance.   

Media Contact

Shane Mackenzie
Vice President, Media and Stakeholder Communications
613.302.7683
smackenzie@chamber.ca