Our Statement on Tariff Exemption Until April 2

Though today’s delay mitigates some of economic damage U.S. tariffs will cause, this is not a moment to celebrate. The economy is not a toy to play with. Constant threats and economic uncertainty have taken their toll. We see it in delayed business investments, shaky consumer confidence, stalled capital flows, and a volatile stock market. People’s livelihoods are at stake. 

Reliable, free trade with Canada helps gas, food, fertilizer, energy, clothes and cars stay affordable for Americans and Canadians. The only outcome that makes sense for both economies is for all tariffs to be taken off the table, without exception.   Until then, we will continue to press our case with Americans who are scared about the rising cost of living and this unnecessary trade war. The Canadian Chamber and a delegation of leading Canadian companies are in Washington today and the rest of this week to collaborate with our on-the-ground American partners in D.C. to safeguard our supply chains and strengthen Canada-U.S. relations.  

We must inevitably be headed toward an updated, negotiated, lasting CUSMA agreement that is respected on all sides, but in the meantime Canada must keep standing up for ourselves by solidifying our economy here at home. Our objective is clear: protecting Canada’s economic sovereignty and security for the good of all Canadians.

• Matthew Holmes, Executive Vice President, International and Chief of Public Policy, Canadian Chamber of Commerce

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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