Canada will lift tariffs on most U.S. goods under CUSMA starting September 1. An EY Canada–Shopify report highlights stronger growth from existing customers. President Trump has launched a new probe into furniture imports, with potential tariffs expected within 50 days. Interac data shows Canadians shifting spending to local businesses, with SMBs gaining 15 million more debit transactions. Retail sales rose 1.5% to $70.2 billion in June, led by food and beverage retailers.
Canada Restores Free Trade on U.S. Goods Under CUSMA
Canada will lift tariffs on most U.S. goods under CUSMA starting September 1, restoring broad free trade. Tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos remain as talks with Washington continue. Prime Minister Mark Carney also announced a new industrial strategy focused on protecting jobs, boosting competitiveness, and strengthening economic resilience.
Source: Inside Logistics
Retailers Boost Loyalty by Turning Data Into Growth
An EY Canada–Shopify report shows growth comes from knowing existing customers, who spend more and buy again. Retailers face challenges with fragmented data across online and in-store channels, but platforms like Shopify help unify insights to deliver personalized offers and loyalty beyond discounts. By activating both digital and in-store data, sectors like apparel are leading in consistent, personalized shopping experiences that drive revenue and competitiveness.
Source: Retail Insider
Trump Eyes Furniture Tariffs Within 50 Days
President Donald Trump launched a new probe into furniture imports, signaling tariffs could come within 50 days, though rates remain undecided. The move follows expanded steel and aluminum duties on appliances, raising questions about targeting furniture. Experts warn tariffs could disrupt $28 billion in imports, impacting retailers, wholesalers, and container shipping.
Source: Retail Dive
Canadians Shift Spending to Local Businesses Amid Tariffs
Interac data shows Canadians are redirecting spending from big-box and international retailers to local businesses, with SMBs recording 15 million more debit transactions between April and July 2025. Small restaurants, bakeries, and farmers’ markets are thriving as consumers prioritize local goods, small indulgences, and essentials like health, wellness, and personal care. Many Canadians also prefer Canadian-made products and use Interac Debit to keep money circulating locally.
Source: Retail Insider
Canadian Retail Sales Reach $70B in June Amid Trade Tensions
Retail sales rose 1.5% to $70.2 billion in June, with gains across all nine subsectors, led by food and beverage retailers. Core sales climbed 1.9%, while gasoline and motor vehicle sales edged higher after earlier declines, though e-commerce slipped 1.7%. Economists warn the strong June results may fade as trade tensions, slower job growth, and cautious spending cool momentum in the second half of the year.
Source: Retail Insider
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