CABC Voices Strong Opposition to New Tariffs Against Canadian Goods

The Canadian American Business Council (CABC) has issued a strong statement against the recent imposition of tariffs on Canadian products by the Trump Administration. This move has triggered retaliatory actions by the Canadian Government, prompting concern amongst businesses and communities alike.

In a formal announcement made on March 4, 2025, the CABC emphasized the detrimental impacts that these tariffs could have on both American and Canadian economies. They noted that integrating supply chains, which have been developed over decades of free trade, would suffer tremendously due to these added tariffs from both sides of the border.

According to the CABC, the daily flow of approximately $2.7 billion (CAD$3.6 billion) worth of goods and services between the United States and Canada is at serious risk due to the ongoing tariff disputes. The organization has urgently called on officials from both governments to return to the negotiation table and work together to dismantle these tariffs, thereby reinforcing one of the world’s most effective economic partnerships.

Discussing the intricacies of the economic relationship, the CABC pointed out that the collaboration built on trust and mutual benefit could be jeopardized if these punitive measures are not addressed swiftly. The implications of the tariffs could lead to considerable losses in jobs, economic downturns, and a decrease in competitiveness for both countries, it warned.

CABC CEO Beth Burke has criticized the current administration's stance, underscoring that tariffs and retaliations only erode the historical relationship between the two nations. Burke asserts that the urgency to resolve these issues cannot be overstated, as the stakes are high for communities that depend on this cross-border trade.

Established in 1987, the Canadian American Business Council serves as a key non-profit, non-partisan organization focused on enhancing dialogues between public and private sectors across Canada and the U.S. Its diverse membership includes business leaders and stakeholders across various industries, who together contribute about two million jobs and annual revenues nearing $1.5 trillion.

In summary, the CABC's firm opposition to the tariffs highlights the critical need for collaborative solutions that prioritize the long-standing economic relationship between Canada and the United States. With the stakes so high, both governments are urged to take decisive action towards eliminating these tariffs and revitalizing their trade relations.

The CABC stands firm in its mission to advocate for businesses and communities impacted by such governmental actions, as it strives towards rebuilding and strengthening the vital economic ties between the two nations.

Next Steps

The CABC has called on its members and the wider business community to join in urging both the Trump Administration and the Government of Canada to prioritize discussions aimed at trade stability. The pathway forward rests on building a fruitful dialogue that can restore faith in the collaborative efforts designed to fortify economic growth.”