In Newport, Vermont, a gathering of business owners from both the U.S. and Canada took place to discuss the significant impact of President Trump’s tariffs on their industries. These tariffs, specifically targeting Canadian steel and aluminum, have sparked a wave of discontent in Canada. Canadian citizens have expressed their disapproval not only through vocal criticism but also by boycotting American products.
Marie-Claude Bibeau, a member of parliament from Compton-Stanstead, highlighted the gravity of the situation. She described the situation as unprecedented, emphasizing that the challenges go beyond just the tariffs. With heightened emotions, Bibeau emphasized that these actions threaten Canadian sovereignty.
A diverse group of 18 businesses attended the roundtable meeting, including representatives from breweries, a maple syrup producer, a furniture company, an electrical firm, and a ski resort. Among them was Donna Young from Judd’s Wayeeses Farms in Morgan. Young noted that most of her equipment for producing maple products is sourced from Canada, and the changing political climate has created significant disruptions. She expressed concerns about additional stress factors, particularly due to the unpredictable weather that already affects sugaring.
Bob Montgomery of Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro voiced concerns about the tariffs on aluminum, a crucial component in manufacturing beer cans. He predicted that the 25% tariff increase would inevitably lead to higher beer prices.
Senator Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, criticized Trump’s actions, expressing concern over the strain on the formerly stable and valuable U.S.-Canada relationship. Welch, the meeting’s host, emphasized the importance of maintaining the longstanding friendship, alliance, and neighborly connection between the two countries.
Trade plays a crucial role in the economies of both nations, with Canada being the leading export destination for 36 U.S. states. Daily, nearly $3.6 billion Canadian ($2.7 billion US) worth of goods and services flow across the border. For Vermont, trade with Canada represented a significant portion of the state’s economic activity last year. Welch pointed out that a substantial number of Vermont businesses depend on Canadian trade and cannot absorb a 25% tariff hike.
Welch further criticized the tariff policy in a recent Senate speech, arguing that tariffs ultimately burden those purchasing the products. He described Trump’s tariff strategy as detrimental to Vermont’s economy.
Bibeau urged the American side to advocate for a reversal of these policies, stating that the current approach does not benefit either nation’s economy. She emphasized the importance of collaboration to demonstrate the negative impact these measures have on both countries and their citizens.
