U.S. to raise tariffs on Canada, CUSMA concerns rise, and budget falls short for small businesses

Ian Sinclair

Ian Sinclair

EVP, Commercial Solutions

ISinclair@nls.ca

National Logistics Services
150 Courtneypark Drive West
Mississauga, Ontario

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President Trump announced an extra 10% tariff on Canadian goods after a dispute over an Ontario ad. KPMG says 88% of Canadian executives view losing CUSMA protections as their top risk, expecting U.S. tariffs even under a new deal. The CFIB says the 2025 budget brings little small-business relief as deficits rise. Holiday décor prices are up due to tariffs and logistics costs, with retailers urging early shopping. LoyalT 2025 shows Canadians are joining more loyalty programs but using fewer, demanding greater value and personalization.

President Donald Trump announced an additional 10% tariff on Canadian goods after accusing Ontario of airing a “misleading” ad using Ronald Reagan’s remarks on tariffs. Calling the ad a hostile act that misrepresented Reagan, Trump said he is halting further trade talks with Canada. Ontario has since pulled the ad, but the timing for the new tariffs remains unclear.

KPMG’s survey shows 88% of Canadian executives view losing CUSMA protections as the biggest risk to their business, with most expecting to face U.S. tariffs even under a new deal. Trade uncertainty is already slowing growth, with three-quarters pausing investments and many unable to explore new markets. While most would accept a Canada–U.S. deal if needed, experts warn replacing CUSMA could reshape North American trade and competitiveness.

The CFIB says the 2025 budget provides little relief for small businesses, with no tax cuts and few new measures as deficits continue to climb. While accelerated write-offs, a higher Capital Gains Exemption, and carbon rebate updates help, most programs exclude smaller firms. With rising costs, tariff uncertainty, and reduced immigration adding pressure, business groups warn the budget overlooks urgent needs.

Holiday décor prices are climbing as tariffs and logistics costs rise, leading retailers to raise prices and urge early shopping due to lower production and tighter supply. Many are shifting sourcing from China to Southeast Asia and Mexico, though costs remain far higher. Despite pressure, demand is expected to stay solid around key promotions, though shoppers may be more selective.

LoyalT 2025 shows Canadians are joining more loyalty programs but using fewer, and now demand stronger value, personalization, and everyday relevance. Gen Z is the most active, preferring mobile, premium, and engagement-based rewards beyond purchases. Programs with clear value, personalization, and gamified features are winning customer loyalty.

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NLS Logistics Team Communications
As a leading Third Party Logistics (3PL) firm, we have the strategic infrastructure, technology relationships, and insights to help Canadian and international brands reach and serve the Canadian market
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