MORGAN, Vt. — Crafting maple syrup amidst the unpredictable New England spring weather is already a challenging endeavor. Now, unpredictable international trade policies from the Trump administration are infusing additional concern into an industry dependent on global commerce.
Jim Judd, who manages the fourth-generation Judd’s Wayeeses Farms in Morgan, Vermont, feels the weight of these disruptions. “All sorts of countries come together to bring each container of syrup to life,” he explained. From China originates stainless steel components essential for sap line connections and syrup boiling. Italy often provides the packaging, and Canada, responsible for producing a significant majority of the world’s maple syrup, supplies most of the machinery, subsequently selling about two-thirds of it to the U.S. market.
This spring’s fluctuations cause significant apprehension among U.S. producers in Vermont, New York, Maine, and Wisconsin. President Trump recently altered significant tariffs on numerous countries, maintaining a substantial 145% tariff on Chinese items, while engaging in a tariff dialogue with Canada and Mexico.
According to Allison Hope, executive director of the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers’ Association, there is an assumption that finished maple products remain tariff-free for now. However, uncertainty looms over ancillary products like packaging and equipment originating from China. “It’s like New England weather — perpetually changing,” Hope remarked. “Now, it’s vital to scrutinize how Canada manufactures its equipment and acquires its materials. It’s tough for businesses to plan for growth when the future industry landscape is so uncertain.”
This uncertainty emerges amidst a span of growth for syrup producers in both the U.S. and Canada. With U.S. production, particularly in Vermont, having skyrocketed nearly 500% over two decades, driven by scaling producers and demands for local, natural sugar alternatives, the potential disruption of Canadian trade relations poses a threat.
For Judd, who has invested significantly in Canadian equipment over the years, higher import taxes could sharply raise operational costs. Given syrup’s status as a luxury item, price hikes to offset increased costs are deemed unfeasible.
“The absence of Canadian support leaves us at a crossroads,” Judd said. “We have no alternative suppliers since everything is from Canada. I’ve crossed that border throughout my life. Imposed restrictions seem excessive, some of which might be unnecessary.”