Government of Canada updates tariffs on U.S. imports: What you need to know
These changes aim to provide tariff relief to Canadian businesses by reducing the financial burden caused by surtaxes on a variety of goods and materials.
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Trade in transition
Global trade has entered a new era of volatility. Supply chains are shifting, costs are rising, and companies everywhere are carefully considering their next steps.
With tariff tensions dragging on and no clear resolution currently in sight, businesses on both sides of the border must continue to identify vulnerabilities and take steps to ensure their continuity plans can withstand prolonged uncertainty.
Not sure where to begin? We recommend focusing on the areas below as a matter of priority.
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Understand your product’s classification and origin
Identify what goods your business trades cross border between the U.S. and Canada. Determine how these goods are classified from a tariff perspective, their value, and their country of origin.
Clarify importer responsibilities and liabilities
Determine who the importer is and who is contractually liable to pay the tariffs. Review existing contracts to understand if liability-sharing provisions are in place or if they can be negotiated to mitigate financial risks.
Assess stockpiling and alternative sourcing options
Evaluate whether it is feasible to stockpile products before tariffs take effect or explore sourcing goods from other markets or suppliers to avoid or minimize tariff exposure.
Engage in advocacy
Coordinate with industry partners to highlight the economic impact of tariffs to Canadian government officials, explaining why certain products should be excluded from retaliation lists or prioritized for later rounds.
Explore tax implications and deductions
Tariffs on imported goods may be tax-deductible in some cases, making tax planning essential to your tariff-response strategy. Tariffs may also be included in expenses that qualify for other tax credits, such as scientific research and experimental development credits or manufacturing tax credits.
Strategic shifts: How Canadian procurement policy is responding to U.S. tariffs
In response to ongoing U.S. tariff measures, Canadian governments are reevaluating their procurement policies. In this article, we explore Ontario’s new Procurement Restriction Policy and similar actions emerging across Canada.
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New federal support measures for Canadian businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs
Canada introduced new relief measures to support businesses hit by U.S. tariffs. Here, we break down what these new measures mean for businesses navigating cross-border trade.
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Turmoil in the global trading system: Unpacking the Trump Tariffs
On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a sweeping set of tariffs on what he called "Liberation Day," aiming to reshape the international trading system built by the United States after the Second World War.
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U.S. steel tariffs take effect, Canada and the EU retaliate
As trade tensions rise, what's next in this evolving dispute? This article highlights the key developments, economic implications, and what businesses should watch for moving forward.
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Tariffs and your CCDC construction contracts: Key clauses to review now
The sudden imposition (and sometimes withdrawal) of tariffs is adding uncertainty to the construction industry. How do industry-standard CCDC contracts handle these risks? Who bears the cost when tariffs change?
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Tariff-proofing Canadian business: The role of intellectual property
With tariff uncertainty reshaping global trade, protecting intellectual property has never been more important. By identifying key IP assets, securing patents abroad, and taking advantage of international trademark systems, Canadian businesses can better position themselves for long-term success.
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Tariffs and the cost of building: What's at stake for Canadian construction and infrastructure
The cost of building in Canada is at risk. With proposed U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum and other key materials, Canadian construction and infrastructure projects are bracing for higher costs, supply chain delays and increased contract risks. What does this mean for industry players—and how can you prepare?
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Navigating Canada's retaliatory tariffs: Strategies and considerations for U.S. exporters
While the U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods promise to significantly impact organizations importing goods into the United States, Canada's expected retaliatory response will be no less consequential for organizations exporting goods from the U.S. into Canada.
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Trump tariffs and Canadian employment law: Key considerations for employers
How will U.S. tariffs affect your workforce? From compensation changes to potential layoffs, Canadian employers must plan carefully to avoid legal risks. Get ahead of the challenges by understanding the key employment law considerations that must shape your response.
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How importers of U.S. goods can minimize the impact of Canadian tariffs
As trade tensions between Canada and the United States escalate, Canadian businesses importing goods from the U.S. face increased costs due to retaliatory tariffs. This article outlines comprehensive strategies to help businesses assess and mitigate the impact of these tariffs.
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How to advertise Canadian products amid trade tensions
From understanding "Made in Canada" vs. "Product of Canada" to navigating regional claims, national symbols and third-party certifications, here's what you need to know before making a Canadian origin claim.
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Preparing for tariffs: A guide for North American importers and exporters
This guide identifies the primary risks posed by the proposed tariffs and outlines practical strategies and proactive measures organizations can take to prepare for the potential changes ahead.
Explore our recent guide
Gowling WLG in the news
As trade tensions evolve, our lawyers remain front and centre in the media, delivering timely, sector-specific insights to help businesses navigate uncertainty.
Canada urged to "play it smart" in response to U.S. tariffs: Jacques Shore speaks with The Canadian Press
In an interview with Canadian Press, Jacques J. M. Shore, C.M., a partner in our Government Affairs and International Trade groups, emphasized the importance of discipline and strategy in Canada's approach to international trade disputes.
Canada urged to "play it smart" in response to U.S. tariffs: Jacques Shore speaks with The Canadian Press
In an interview with Canadian Press, Jacques J. M. Shore, C.M., a partner in our Government Affairs and International Trade groups, emphasized the importance of discipline and strategy in Canada's approach to international trade disputes.
Canada’s critical minerals, trade and the energy transition: Thomas Timmins weighs in on supply chain risks with BNN Bloomberg
Speaking recently with BNN Bloomberg, Thomas Timmins, leader of Gowling WLG’s Energy Group, discussed Canada’s role in the global critical minerals market amid growing concerns over tariff tensions and supply chain vulnerabilities.
U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum could drive up costs: Ted Betts weighs in on trade impacts on BNN
Speaking with BNN, Ted Betts, head of Infrastructure & Construction at Gowling WLG, discussed the potential consequences of U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. The interview examines how these trade measures could impact costs and supply chains across North America.
Canada grapples with rising U.S. tariffs and continued trade talks: Wendy Wagner offers insight on CTV News
As the U.S. increases tariffs on Canadian goods to 35%, trade negotiations between the two countries remain opaque. Speaking with CTV News, Wendy Wagner, head of our International Trade and Customs Group, shared her insights on both the immediate implications of the tariff hike and the broader diplomatic landscape.
Tariff troubles? Let's talk
Don't let tariffs undermine the success you've built. Our team is ready to help you navigate the complexities of cross-border trade, secure critical exclusions and exemptions and protect your bottom line. From reviewing contracts to optimizing your supply chains to advocating with government officials, we'll ensure you're positioned to respond decisively to a changing trade landscape.
