October 8, 2025: Prime Minister Mark Carney concluded his time in Washington without a trade deal, but ongoing discussions signal continued negotiations between Canada and the United States, as leaders also prepare to begin the upcoming review of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)

Navigating the Proposed Tariffs: What Canadian Business Leaders Need to Know

Industry-leading insights and our latest resources to help Canadian business leaders navigate tariff changes with confidence.

TEC Canada is committed to providing CEOs and business leaders with real-time updates and expert perspectives to help them make informed decisions. This page will be continually updated with:

Latest News & Policy Updates

Stay informed on evolving trade regulations and their implications.

Resources & Tools

Explore best practices and tools to navigate financial and operational challenges.

Analysis & Economic Insights

Hear from leading economists, trade specialists, and TEC Canada members at the forefront.

Latest News & Policy Updates | Tariffs and Trade Policy

Stay informed on evolving trade regulations and their implications.

September 1, 2025: Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that beginning September 1, Canada will reduce a wide range of tariffs on goods from the United States that qualify under the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), a move aimed at boosting trade flows and reigniting stalled negotiations with the U.S.

August 5, 2025: A new U.S.-Canada trade deal failed to materialize by the self-imposed August 1 deadline, and negotiations remain ongoing.

President Trump has since issued an executive order raising tariffs to 35% on Canadian goods not compliant with CUSMA, though approximately 95% of Canadian exports remain exempt under existing provisions.

August 1, 2025: Trump orders 50% tariff on semi-finished copper imports and raises tariffs on Canadian goods not exempt from CUSMA to 35%

President Donald Trump signs a proclamation imposing a 50% tariff on all semi-finished copper products and intensive copper derivatives from all countries, including Canada. Canada’s copper industry is expected to be less affected since its main export, raw and refined copper, are exempt.

Additionally, an executive order was signed to increase tariffs on Canadian goods from 25% to 35% as part of a crackdown on illicit drug flows across the northern border. Goods determined to be transshipped to evade tariffs may be threatened with a 40% rate, though CUSMA compliant products remain exempt.

 

June 29, 2025: Canada Repeals Digital Services Tax to Boost Trade Talks

To advance negotiations with the U.S., Canada announces the repeal of the Digital Services Tax Act and cancels the June 30, 2025, payment deadline, removing a key point of contention in bilateral trade discussions.

 

June 27, 2025: Canada Introduces Steel Import Quotas and 50% Surtax

A new order-in-council sets import quotas on steel mill products from non-FTA partners, including flat, long, pipe, tube, semi-finished, and stainless steel. Shipments without a specific import permit will face a 50% surtax, with quotas reviewed after 30 days.

June 26, 2025: Canada introduced Bill C-5 the One Canadian Economy: An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act

Bill C-5 seeks to boost economic integration within Canada by removing interprovincial trade and labour mobility barriers. It creates the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, allowing goods, services, and workers to move more freely between provinces, encouraging domestic trade, and the Building Canada Act, which streamlines approvals for national interest infrastructure projects. The bill aims to reduce duplication of regulations and speed up major development while maintaining safeguards for health, safety, and the environment. Full bill can be found here: https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/AnnualStatutes/2025_2/FullText.html

June 15-17, 2025: World leaders meet in Kananaskis for the 2025 G7 Summit, with Canada holding the G7 presidency and hosting discussions on global economic, trade, and security issues.

June 3, 2025: President Trump raised Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum from 25% to 50% on June 3, 2025, citing national security concerns over import surges and global overcapacity. Read more here. The increase in U.S. metals tariffs came into effect at 12:01 a.m. (0401 GMT) on June 4, 2025. It applies to all trading partners except Britain, the only country so far to strike a preliminary trade agreement with the U.S. during a 90-day pause on a wider array of Trump tariffs. The increase in the levies jolted the market for both metals this week, especially for aluminum, which has seen price premiums more than double this year.

May 28, 2025: A U.S. trade court blocked President Trump’s sweeping tariffs, ruling he exceeded his authority under the emergency powers act, but a federal appeals court reinstated them the next day while reviewing the government’s appeal, with responses due June 5 and June 9. The back and forth ruling adds uncertainty to North American trade relations and ongoing negotiations. Click here to learn more.

May 3, 2025: The United States imposed 25% tariff on automotive parts became effective, with an exemption for parts that meet CUSMA requirements, which can be exported tariff-free. Details of this tariff can be found here.

April 15, 2025: Canada has introduced targeted support for businesses hit by U.S. tariffs, including tariff relief for certain imports and a loan facility for key large enterprises. These measures aim to ease supply chain disruptions and protect Canadian jobs and industries. Click here to learn more.

April 9, 2025: Trump announces 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for 75 non-retaliating countries, and raises levies on China to 125%

April 8, 2025: The U.S. will impose 104% tariffs on China starting at midnight on April 9, 2025, as Canada prepares to launch auto tariffs.

April 3, 2025: President Trump’s 25% tariff on all foreign-made automobiles takes effect and Canada responds with a reciprocal 25% tariff on all vehicles imported from the United States that are not compliant with CUSMA.

April 2, 2025: Trump Unveils Sweeping Levies in Stark Shift in Trade Policy

President Trump announced a sweeping new tariff policy—imposing a baseline 10% tariff on all U.S. imports, with steeper reciprocal tariffs for select countries such as 34% on Chinese goods and 20% on European Union imports—while notably making no mention of Canada or Mexico. The announcement triggered a sharp selloff in U.S. stock futures and raised fears of economic fallout, though some analysts believe the market overreacted and view the move as a negotiation tactic.

March 13, 2025: It’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s last day in power, and his replacement, Mark Carney, said he’s ready to sit at the negotiating table with U.S. President Donald Trump so long as Canada’s sovereignty is respected. In the Oval Office, Trump said today Canada could keep its anthem if it became a state. Meanwhile, the trade war continues. Trump’s 25 percent tariffs on steel and aluminum are in effect, and so are Canada’s countermeasures on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods.

March 12, 2025: Trump metals tariffs draw swift retaliation from Canada and EU | Canada imposes C$29.8 bln in retaliatory tariffs

March 11, 2025: President Trump announced that new retaliatory tariffs on Canada, which were scheduled to take effect on Wednesday, would be raised to 50% instead of the previously planned 25%. He asserted that the only solution was for Canada to join the United States. However, he later reversed his decision after Ontario agreed not to impose tariffs on electricity exports.

March 7, 2025 (Reuters): Canada on Friday unveiled billions of dollars in aid and other forms of support to businesses and people expected to be directly affected by U.S. tariffs. These relief measures involve over C$6.5 billion ($4.52 billion) of financial aid to help companies tap new international markets, absorb the impact of losses, access easy loans and prevent layoffs, a team of ministers said.

March 6, 2025: The Trump administration will delay imposing 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for goods and services compliant with the USMCA trade agreement. The waiver will last until April 2, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said Thursday, adding that he hopes the two nations will do “a good enough job” combating the flow of fentanyl. President Trump intends to introduce fresh tariffs next month, including reciprocal levies and industry-specific ones on cars, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

March 5, 2025: Trudeau outlines response to U.S. tariffs, says Canada will ‘relentlessly’ fight to protect the economy

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking from Parliament Hill on Tuesday, says Canada will immediately start imposing tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods. Trudeau said tariffs will be imposed on the remaining $125 billion of American products in 21 days as a response to U.S. tariffs that went into effect on Canada Tuesday.

March 4, 2025: Trump triggers trade war, price hikes with tariffs on Canada, China and Mexico

Overview

On March 4, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed new 25% tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, escalating trade tensions and introducing new economic uncertainties. The tariffs, which Trump claims are aimed at addressing trade imbalances and the flow of fentanyl into the U.S., could disrupt $2.2 trillion in annual trade and lead to higher costs for businesses and consumers across North America.

Key Developments & Reactions

Immediate Tariff Impact:
The U.S. has introduced 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods and new duties on Chinese imports.
Further tariffs are planned for April 2, including “reciprocal tariffs” aimed at countries with existing duties on U.S. goods.
Key affected sectors include electronics, agriculture, consumer goods, and automotive.
Canadian Government Response:
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the tariffs “a very dumb thing to do” and responded with 25% tariffs on C$30 billion ($20.7B USD) worth of U.S. imports, including food, beverages, appliances, and motorcycles.
Trudeau warned that Canada will escalate tariffs to C$125 billion if the U.S. does not reverse course within 21 days, likely affecting automobiles, steel, aircraft, beef, and pork.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford retaliated by:
Canceling a C$100 million contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink network.
Banning U.S. firms from Ontario government contracts.
Threatening a 25% surcharge on Ontario’s electricity exports to the U.S.
Mexico’s Response:
President Claudia Sheinbaum vowed retaliatory measures, with details expected on March 10.
China’s Response:
China immediately imposed 10-15% retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, particularly targeting agriculture and manufacturing.
The Chinese government stated it is prepared for a “tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war”.

Economic Implications

Stock Market & Currency Reactions:
The tariffs triggered a global stock sell-off.
The Canadian dollar and Mexican peso initially dropped but recovered slightly after U.S. officials suggested a potential partial resolution.
Higher Prices for Consumers:
Target CEO Brian Cornell confirmed that U.S. retail prices on imported goods, including avocados, grocery products, and electronics, will increase within days.
Best Buy CEO Corie Barry warned of higher costs for electronics, as China and Mexico are top sources for U.S. consumer technology.
Economists estimate the tariffs could lead to an extra $1,000 in annual costs per U.S. household.
Potential Economic Slowdown:
The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta revised its U.S. GDP outlook from +2.3% growth to a -2.8% contraction in Q1 2025.
Experts warn that a prolonged trade war could halt North America’s economic momentum, with severe consequences for manufacturing, exports, and cross-border business operations.

What’s Next?

March 10: China’s new tariffs take effect.
March 24: Canada may expand its tariff list if U.S. duties remain in place.
April 2: The U.S. is set to introduce additional tariffs on more goods.
Ongoing: Talks between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico could lead to modifications but are unlikely to eliminate the tariffs entirely.

Conclusion

The trade war between the U.S., Canada, and its key partners is escalating, with retaliatory tariffs, economic disruptions, and rising costs threatening business operations across North America. TEC Canada members should monitor developments closely, as the situation continues to evolve.

Feb 24, 2025: Canada & Mexico Intensify Border Talks to Avoid U.S. Tariffs

Canada and Mexico are ramping up efforts to prevent the implementation of punishing 25% tariffs on their exports to the U.S., set to take effect on March 4. These tariffs could severely impact the integrated North American economy, affecting key industries such as automotive, energy, and manufacturing.

Key Developments:

Increased Border Security – Both countries have enhanced their enforcement efforts, with Mexico deploying 10,000 national guard troops to its northern border and Canada appointing a “fentanyl czar” to combat opioid smuggling.
Ongoing Negotiations – Discussions this week, alongside reports from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will determine whether the Trump administration extends the tariff suspension.
Retaliation in Play – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has warned of retaliatory tariffs on $107 billion worth of U.S. imports, including American beer, bourbon, and Florida orange juice.

Even if a temporary extension is granted, trade experts suggest that tariff threats will likely remain in place until clear evidence shows that these new measures are effectively reducing fentanyl smuggling and illegal migration.

This situation could also accelerate discussions on renegotiating the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) ahead of its scheduled 2026 review.

With so much at stake for Canadian businesses, TEC Canada will continue to monitor developments and provide insights on how leaders can navigate these potential disruptions.

This article summarizes reporting by David Lawder for Thomson Reuters, please read the original article here.

Tariffs and Trade Policy | Resources & Tools Worth Sharing

A curated collection of resources and tools we believe are valuable for Canadian businesses as they navigate short- and long-term strategies while adapting to the evolving Canada-US trade landscape.

A Playbook

How to Measure a Tariff Shock in Canada

Download

Weathering the Storm

A Canadian SME Playbook for Navigating US-Canada Tariffs

Download

Tariff Risk Assessment Tool

Evaluate the impact of tariffs on your business.

Download

Actions to Take in a Tariff Environment

2025 Guide to Tariff Pricing

Download

Expected Provincial Impacts

The True Cost of Trump Tariffs: Provincial Impacts British Columbia Alberta Saskatchewan Manitoba Ontario Quebec Newfoundland and Labrador New Brunswick Nova Scotia Prince Edward Island Read More from The Conference Board of Canada Major Canadian City Impacts

Realtime Research Series by the Conference Board of Canada delivers timely, data-driven insights on Canada’s trade performance, tracking exports, imports, and global market trends to help businesses and policymakers navigate shifting economic conditions.

An online data visualization and research platform offering insights into international trade, economic complexity, and country-level import and export trends, supporting detailed analysis of tariffs and global market dynamics.

Across Canada, businesses are feeling the impact of market uncertainty. Export Development Canada (EDC) understands the challenges that exporters—the primary contributors to our economy—are confronting. For more than 80 years, EDC has stood tall when Canadian companies needed them most. Now, EDC is moving quickly to provide meaningful support to Canadian exporters and investors as you adjust and adapt to these new market realities.

The EDC Trade Impact Program will facilitate an additional $5 billion over two years in support for eligible companies across a range of products to help you navigate economic challenges.

If you’re an eligible Canadian exporter, or a company that supplies exporters, here’s EDC can help:

  • Export confidently: EDC trade credit insurance protects against losses in the event of non-payment from your foreign buyer.
  • Manage currency fluctuations: EDC offers solutions that mitigate the risks associated with foreign exchange fluctuations by stabilizing your costs and protecting your profit margins from adverse currency movements.
  • Access more working capital: EDC guarantees share a portion of your financial institution’s risk, allowing you to access more financing for managing cash flow challenges and growing your operations.
  • Enable global expansion: EDC’s financing solutions enable you to increase your capacity for trade, expand your footprint in different markets, or acquire a foreign company.

With $5 billion in additional capacity already allocated, EDC is ready to meet heightened demand for its financing and insurance solutions.

As trade conditions are sure to remain fluid, EDC will continue to adjust their support to meet your changing needs. EDC’s priority is to provide meaningful and timely support to Canadian exporters, so you can focus on what you do best: Provide the goods and services the world wants.

The priority of Export Development Canada (EDC) is to provide meaningful and timely support to Canadian exporters, so you can focus on what you do best: Provide the goods and services the world wants.

This tool from the Business Data Lab (BDL) and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, explores provincial ties to the $3.6 Billion in daily Canada-U.S. trade that supports jobs on both sides of the border.

Most Requested Resources

Services and information

Tariff information and Harmonized System codes

Resources to identify tariff information for goods with HS codes

Canadian customs tariff

Tariff classifications for goods you want to import into Canada, apply for refunds

Export and import controls

Permits, certificates, policy notices, control systems, printable forms and guides

Canadian sanctions

Current and former sanctions and related measures, Canadian legislation, permits and certificates, listed person

Responsible business conduct abroad

Canada’s approach to settling disputes, standards, anti-corruption and due diligence

Trade agreements, negotiations and consultations

International trade and investment agreements, negotiations, impact assessments and consultations

Tariff and duty information, sanctions, export and import controls and other rules that affect Canadian traders.

The Canada Tariff Finder is a free online tool designed to help Canadian entrepreneurs who plan to import or export products. It allows users to search for products by keyword or Harmonized System (HS) code. Developed in collaboration with BDC, EDC, and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service of Global Affairs Canada, this tool provides valuable tariff information to support international trade decisions.

Webinars Worth Watching

With new tariffs reshaping Canada-US trade, these TEC Canada webinars offer timely analysis and actionable strategies for business leaders. Join experts as they discuss economic implications, government responses, and what it all means for your business.

Analysis & Economic Insights

Hear from leading economists, trade specialists, and TEC Canada members at the forefront of the evolving Canada-US trade relationship.

U.S. and Canada Forecasts Hold Steady Amid Trade Reorientation

RBC Economics – July 11, 2025

Full report available here

Forecast Stability Despite Tariff Headlines

  • Canadian and U.S. economic outlooks remain largely unchanged, despite new U.S. trade actions.
  • Baseline assumption: average U.S. tariffs to stay in the 10 %–15 % range in 2025.
  • Support for the forecast comes from:
    • A 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs, extended to August 1.
    • Early U.S. trade agreements with the U.K. and Vietnam, without pushing tariffs below 10 %.

Trade Shock Contained by CUSMA

  • U.S. trade measures still represent a material shock, but the scope for escalation is limited.

  • CUSMA exemption shields over 90 % of Canadian exports to the U.S. from new tariffs.

  • This protection is a key buffer against worst-case scenarios such as blanket 25 % tariffs.

Short-Term Risks: Inventory and Supply Chain Volatility

  • Persistent uncertainty could prompt inventory front-loading by businesses.
  • These precautionary moves risk creating short-term distortions in supply chains and shipment schedules.

Takeaways for Policymakers & Businesses

  • Current tariff levels appear manageable for the Canadian economy in the near term.
  • Strong integration with U.S. markets remains both a strength and vulnerability.
  • Monitoring trade developments and supply chain responses will be critical for anticipating knock-on effects to growth.

Government of Canada Quarterly Economic and Trade Report

Government of Canada — Office of the Chief Economist
Quarterly Economic and Trade Report — Q1 2025

The full report can be found here

Canada’s Trade Activity: Balanced Gains

  • Exports and imports both rose 4.1% in Q1 2025, covering goods and services—propelled by motor vehicles & parts, industrial machinery, equipment & parts. Aircraft, transportation equipment, and commercial services also saw notable import gains. RBC+11Global Affairs Canada+11Global Affairs Canada+11
  • Exports to the U.S. jumped 7.9% and to China by 11.0%, as firms acted preemptively amid U.S. and Chinese tariff threats. In contrast, exports to the EU fell 2.0% and to the rest of the world declined 6.2%. Global Affairs Canada
  • Imports from the U.S. climbed 5.6% and from China 6.3%, while imports from the EU rose 1.3% and from other global regions increased by 5.9%. Global Affairs Canada

Interpretation & Context

  • The sharp increase in trade with the U.S. and China underscores businesses’ reactive strategies to tariff threats, seeking to minimize disruption by front-loading shipments.
  • The decline in exports to the EU and broader global markets may signal diversification pressures or capacity constraints amidst accelerating export demands to key markets.
  • Overall, the trade data reflect a nimble response by Canadian firms navigating a shifting global trade landscape.

Looking Ahead: What to Watch

  • Businesses continue to adapt rapidly to tariff environments, with export destinations and supply chains recalibrating accordingly.
  • Monthly and quarterly updates—including the forthcoming Statistics Canada macroeconomic indicators—will be crucial in painting a fuller picture of trade evolution and economic resilience.

EDC Global Economic Outlook Summer 2025

Export Development Canada (EDC) – Global Economic Outlook, Summer 2025
Overview based on EDC’s GEO summary and country forecasts.

The full report can be found here.

Global and National Growth Projections

Inflation, Interest Rates & Exchange Rate Outlooks

Trade Tensions and Protective Measures

Context & Strategic Value

  • The Outlook offers in-depth insights on growth dynamics, interest rates, exchange rates, and commodity trends, serving as a practical tool for Canadian firms facing complex global headwinds Export Development Canada.
  • Current forecasts underscore the importance of flexible business strategies, especially in sectors exposed to trade volatility and rate-sensitive environments.

Key Takeaways for Canadian Stakeholders

  • Slow growth internationally—especially in major trading partners—will weigh on Canadian exports.
  • Gradual monetary easing by both central banks will support domestic borrowing and investment.
  • Currency volatility and supply chain maneuvering will be defining features of the trade environment.
  • Adapting to this new phase of uncertainty will require agility and planning from businesses and policymakers alike.

Tariffs have become a significant concern for businesses across industries. While some companies may assume these trade policies are temporary, history suggests otherwise. Tariffs often lead to structural shifts that businesses must adapt to in order to protect profitability and sustain long-term success.

To provide clarity and actionable insights, Colten Esser, Manager of Strategy & Research at TEC Canada, sat down with Avy Punwasee and Michael Stanisz, Partners at Revenue Management Labs. In this discussion, they explore the lasting impact of tariffs, effective pricing strategies, and key considerations for business leaders navigating these financial challenges.

Are Tariffs Here to Stay?

Colten Esser: Let’s start with the big question: Are tariffs here to stay? What are the chances we’ll see increases or, hopefully, decreases?

Avy Punwasee: Historically, once tariffs are enacted, they tend to be quite sticky. Removing them requires navigating complex bureaucratic processes, which means companies need to prepare for the long haul. Burying your head in the sand and assuming tariffs will be repealed in six months is not a sound business strategy.

Michael Stanisz: I completely agree. If you look at steel tariffs implemented in 2018, they’re still in place today. Even when tariffs are lifted, they often create long-term market shifts that are difficult to reverse. We’ve worked with businesses that faced tariffs for only a short period, but they are still feeling the effects years later.

First Steps: How to Manage Tariff Impacts

Colten Esser: What are the first steps businesses should take when dealing with tariff-related pricing challenges?

Avy Punwasee: There are three critical areas to assess:

  1. Financial Impact: Businesses must analyze their cost structure and determine the exact financial impact of tariffs.
  2. Competitive Landscape: Companies need to evaluate how competitors are responding to tariffs. Are they absorbing costs, passing them on, or finding alternative solutions?
  3. Customer Behavior: Some customers have fixed budgets and can’t immediately adjust to price changes. Businesses must anticipate shifts in purchasing behavior and adjust pricing or discount strategies accordingly.

Michael Stanisz: A key mistake we see is businesses solely focusing on cost analysis without considering market dynamics. If competitors shift their pricing, that affects your ability to pass costs along. It’s essential to take a 360-degree approach before making pricing decisions.

Communicating Price Increases Transparently

Colten Esser: Many businesses hesitate to increase prices, fearing customer backlash. How should they handle these conversations?

Michael Stanisz: Transparency is key. If you’re upfront about why prices are increasing—especially when tied to tariffs—customers are more likely to accept them. This is one of the easiest times to push pricing adjustments because customers understand tariffs are external forces beyond your control.

Avy Punwasee: A big mistake is trying to absorb costs entirely. If you’re silently eating a 20% cost increase, customers might later wonder why you were able to afford it in the first place. That opens the door to difficult negotiations down the road.

Strategic Pricing Adjustments: Beyond Just Raising Prices

Colten Esser: Aside from raising prices, are there other pricing strategies companies should consider?

Avy Punwasee: Absolutely. Businesses can explore:

  • Bundling products to create perceived value.
  • Restructuring discount strategies to maintain margins.
  • Adjusting payment terms to offer flexibility while safeguarding revenue.
  • Re-evaluating contracts to ensure long-term profitability.

Michael Stanisz: Another key strategy is understanding price sensitivity across different product segments. Businesses often spread price increases evenly across all products, but some are more price-sensitive than others. By strategically adjusting prices based on customer behavior and competitive dynamics, companies can optimize profitability without alienating customers.

The Role of Discounts and Promotions in a Tariff Environment

Colten Esser: How should businesses rethink discounts and promotions in light of tariff-related cost increases?

Michael Stanisz: One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is indiscriminately applying discounts. Any discount should be conditional—whether that means bundling additional purchases, committing to longer contracts, or participating in data-sharing programs. If you’re giving something away, you need to get something in return.

Avy Punwasee: In B2B industries, the challenge is even greater because pricing structures are often opaque, and contracts vary significantly. However, this is also an opportunity to clean up outdated discount structures that may no longer serve the business.

Should Companies Add a “Tariff Fee” on Invoices?

Colten Esser: Some companies are adding a “tariff fee” as a line item on invoices to improve cost transparency. Do you recommend this approach?

Avy Punwasee: While it may seem like a logical way to communicate the cost burden, it’s not ideal. Tariffs tend to become a permanent part of the cost structure, so instead of treating them as an add-on, it’s better to incorporate them into your base pricing.

Michael Stanisz: Adding a tariff surcharge now could become a long-term problem when tariffs remain in place for years. It’s better to adjust pricing holistically to avoid having a visible fee that customers may later challenge.

What About Businesses Not Directly Affected by Tariffs?

Colten Esser: Some companies assume tariffs won’t impact them because they don’t import goods. What’s your take on that?

Avy Punwasee: Even if you’re not directly affected, your customers might be. That means they will adjust their budgets, reallocate spending, and potentially reduce their demand for your products or services. Businesses that ignore these ripple effects risk being caught off guard.

Michael Stanisz: A great example is the software industry. While software companies don’t deal with tariffs directly, many of their clients are in manufacturing and logistics—industries deeply impacted by tariffs. If customers face higher costs, they may cut software budgets, renegotiate contracts, or delay purchases. No business operates in isolation, so it’s crucial to anticipate these downstream effects.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for the Future

Colten Esser: What’s your biggest piece of advice for businesses navigating pricing in a tariff-driven environment?

Michael Stanisz: Don’t be reactive—be proactive. Businesses that monitor competitor responses, analyze customer behavior, and adjust pricing strategies thoughtfully will be in a much stronger position than those that simply hope for the best.

Avy Punwasee: The key takeaway is that tariffs create lasting shifts in the market. Companies that embrace a strategic, data-driven pricing approach will not only survive but thrive in the long run.

Conclusion

Pricing strategies are more critical than ever in an uncertain trade environment. By understanding the financial, competitive, and customer implications of tariffs, businesses can develop smart, sustainable pricing models that protect profitability. The insights shared by Avy Punwasee and Michael Stanisz highlight the importance of proactive planning, transparency, and strategic execution.

For TEC Canada members and business leaders alike, now is the time to evaluate your pricing strategy and ensure you’re prepared for the evolving global trade landscape.

The Tariff Tightrope Navigating Uncertainty for Canada’s SMEs
https://tec-canada.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/CEO_ConfidenceIndex_NEXT_2025_Q2_CTA-1.pdf
The Tariff Tightrope Navigating Uncertainty for Canada’s SMEs

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While President Trump’s tariff announcement may seem abrupt, it stems from deeper underlying forces shaping Canadian-American trade relations. Explore the motivations behind the proposed tariffs and discover strategies for SMEs to mitigate risk.

Canadian SMEs, which form the backbone of the national economy, are particularly vulnerable to the proposed tariffs.

The TEC Canada CEO Confidence Index provides a real-time pulse on the Canadian economy, delivering valuable insights into evolving business conditions and the confidence levels of SME leaders.

TEC Canada’s CEO Confidence Index is a real-time pulse of the Canadian economy, offering a view into shifting business conditions and the confidence of Canada’s small and mid-size business community. Conducted between May 30th and July 1st, 2025, the survey captured responses primarily from SMEs (fewer than 100 employees), with moderate representation from larger firms (up to 500 employees). The robust response rate in the survey ensures a high level of statistical reliability, making TEC Canada’s CEO Confidence Index one of Canada’s largest and most representative studies on economic confidence.

Explore the latest edition of The Economic Lens: Trade at a Turning Point – Navigating the Fragmented Global Economy.

The Economic Lens is based on insights from last quarter’s special CEO Confidence Index survey on tariffs and trade, this edition examines the unraveling of long-held assumptions about international trade amid a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape. It also offers practical strategies to help businesses navigate the risks and uncertainties of this new era.