Last updated: September 2, 2026
Trade conditions between Canada and the United States continue to change rapidly. The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade is monitoring developments and connecting businesses with the latest news, resources, supports and opportunities to diversify into new markets.
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Canada announces targeted countermeasures and substantive support for workers and businesses in response to U.S. tariffs
News release – August 25, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – Department of Finance Canada
The Government of Canada has negotiated intensively and in good faith with the United States (U.S.) toward a fair and comprehensive trade agreement that would protect Canadian workers and their families, strengthen the economy, provide greater certainty for businesses, and respect Canada’s sovereignty.
In recent days, however, the U.S. proposed new terms that were not in Canada’s best interest, basically, asking too much of Canada, and offering too little in return. Canada therefore suspended negotiations rather than accepting a bad deal that would undermine Canadian workers, businesses, strategic sectors, and our national interest. Canada did not choose this trade conflict, but we need to respond to provide a level playing field to our businesses.
Canada Cannot Wait on Washington: SWRBOT Calls for Diversification and Domestic Growth
August 22, 2026
The Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade (SWRBOT) supports Canada standing firm in trade negotiations with the United States rather than accepting an agreement that does not protect Canadian businesses, workers and resources.
“We are disappointed that the U.S. negotiating team was unable to reach an agreement with Canada that respects our longstanding economic partnership and the principles of fair, rules-based trade,” said Joslyn Young, CEO of the Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade. “A deal at any cost is not a good deal.”
Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade Statement on the Latest U.S. Tariff Measures
July 21, 2026
SWRBOT continues to advocate for stability, predictability and policies that strengthen Canada’s competitiveness while helping businesses diversify into new markets.
On July 21, 2026, SWRBOT responded to the latest U.S. tariff announcement and emphasized the importance of providing Canadian businesses with the tools, information and opportunities needed to adapt to a changing global trade environment.
SWRBOT also encouraged businesses involved in U.S. trade to review their supply chains, assess their exposure and explore opportunities beyond reliance on a single trading partner.
The latest U.S. tariff measures include an additional 50% tariff on certain Canadian goods, effective August 22, 2026, covering approximately $27.6 billion in Canadian exports to the United States. The measures were introduced under Section 338 of the U.S. Tariff Act and affect selected Canadian products, rather than all goods exported to the U.S.
Canadian businesses should also continue to account for existing U.S. tariffs affecting key sectors, including steel, aluminum and automotive products, where separate U.S. trade measures remain in place.
In response, the Government of Canada has announced that it will:
• Introduce matching counter tariffs of 15%, 25% and 50% on $27.6 billion of U.S. imports beginning September 8
• Target products in sectors including steel, dairy, appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper, and electronics
• Provide $7.5 billion in new and enhanced supports for Canadian workers and businesses affected by the trade dispute
• Expand financing, liquidity, diversification, workforce retention and retraining supports for affected businesses and employees
Businesses that export to the United States, import U.S. goods or rely on cross border supply chains should review whether their specific products are affected and continue monitoring developments as tariff measures may change.
No.
The August 22, 2026 measures apply to certain Canadian products, not every Canadian export.
The U.S. has stated that these new Section 338 tariffs apply to covered goods even when those goods qualify under CUSMA. However, products subject to Section 232 tariffs and certain other products, including energy, potash, certain fish and critical minerals, are excluded from the new Section 338 tariffs.
Because tariff treatment depends on the specific product and classification, businesses should verify their exposure before shipping.
Yes, and CUSMA compliance remains extremely important.
Canadian goods that qualify for preferential duty free treatment under CUSMA continue to be exempt from the current 10% Section 301 tariff.
However, CUSMA compliance does not automatically exempt a product from every U.S. tariff. Certain sector specific Section 232 tariffs and the new Section 338 measures may still apply.
Businesses should confirm that their products meet the applicable rules of origin and maintain appropriate documentation.
Use the Government of Canada CUSMA compliance guide
Resources to Support Businesses in the Face of Trade Uncertainty
Start with the Harmonized System classification for the goods you import or export.
The Government of Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service provides current tariff information, tariff tools, CUSMA guidance and resources specifically for Canadian exporters facing U.S. tariffs.
Businesses should also consider speaking with a customs broker, trade advisor or other qualified professional before making product specific decisions.
Canada removed most of the counter tariffs introduced in 2025. However, after the implementation of the additional 50% tariffs on August 22, 2026, Canada will be implementing new counter tariffs after the Labour Day holiday. More information to come on these.
Counter tariffs continue to apply to certain U.S. steel, aluminum and automobile products. The Government of Canada maintains an authoritative searchable list of products currently subject to Canadian counter tariffs.
Businesses importing from the United States should consult the current federal information rather than relying on earlier 2025 tariff lists.
View Canada’s current tariff measures and remission information
Search the current list of U.S. products subject to Canadian counter tariffs
Potentially.
The Government of Canada provides remission and other tariff relief options in certain circumstances. Eligibility depends on the product, its use and the applicable tariff measure.
Businesses should review the current federal tariff response hub for available remission programs and application information.
Businesses involved directly or indirectly in Canada U.S. trade should review their exposure rather than assume that one tariff rate applies to every shipment.
Key considerations include confirming product classifications, checking CUSMA eligibility, reviewing contracts and responsibility for duties, understanding landed costs, assessing supply chain exposure and speaking with customs or trade professionals where necessary.
Businesses should also consider whether financing, workforce support, productivity investments or market diversification could reduce their exposure to continued trade uncertainty.
Several current programs may support businesses facing tariff related costs or trade uncertainty.
BDC Pivot to Grow Loan
BDC’s Pivot to Grow Loan supports eligible Canadian businesses affected directly or indirectly by tariffs, related uncertainty or the current economic environment.
Eligible businesses can access financing of up to $5 million to help preserve cash flow, cover operating expenses, purchase equipment, revise supply chains and implement resilience plans. Eligibility requirements apply.
Explore the BDC Pivot to Grow Loan
EDC Trade Impact Program
Export Development Canada’s Trade Impact Program provides additional capacity to help Canadian exporters and companies that supply exporters navigate tariffs and changing global trade conditions.
EDC has committed up to $5 billion through March 2027 through financing, guarantees, credit insurance and other trade solutions.
Explore the EDC Trade Impact Program
FCC Trade Disruption Customer Support Program
Farm Credit Canada’s Trade Disruption Customer Support Program supports Canadian agriculture, agribusiness and food businesses experiencing financial pressure from tariffs and other global market disruptions.
The program has been extended until March 5, 2027.
Yes.
Regional Tariff Response Initiative
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative supports businesses responding to trade disruptions while strengthening long term competitiveness.
In British Columbia, the program is delivered by PacifiCan and is currently accepting applications.
Support is focused on areas including productivity, business transformation, supply chain resilience, new market development and trade diversification. Additional federal funding was announced for the initiative in 2026.
Explore the Regional Tariff Response Initiative in British Columbia
SWRBOT Grants and Funding
SWRBOT also maintains a current Grants and Funding resource connecting businesses with local, regional and national programs, financing and business support opportunities.
Work Sharing Program
The Government of Canada’s Work Sharing Program can help employers and employees avoid layoffs when businesses experience a temporary reduction in normal business activity.
Temporary tariff related special measures have been extended until March 31, 2027 and provide additional flexibility for affected employers and workers.
Explore the Work Sharing Program
Worker Retention Grant
Employers with an approved and implemented Work Sharing agreement may also qualify for the Worker Retention Grant.
The program helps employers provide additional income support to eligible employees who are working reduced hours while participating in training.
Applications are currently open until December 31, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Explore the Worker Retention Grant
Where can exporters get direct help?
The Government of Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service provides support to eligible Canadian businesses affected by U.S. tariffs.
Trade Commissioners can help businesses understand potential impacts, identify new markets, connect with qualified contacts and explore international opportunities.
For the latest official tariff rules and federal support programs, start with the Government of Canada and Trade Commissioner Service resources.
For local business support, market diversification, professional development and funding opportunities, explore SWRBOT’s Trade Hub, Business Growth Academy and Grants and Funding resources.
Because tariff policies can change quickly, businesses should confirm current requirements before importing or exporting goods.
Government of Canada Tariff Response Hub
View current Canadian tariff measures and support
Trade Commissioner Service U.S. Tariff Hub
View current information for Canadian exporters
SWRBOT Trade Hub
Explore international and interprovincial opportunities
SWRBOT Grants and Funding
Find current grants, financing and business supports
SWRBOT Business Growth Academy
Explore professional development and business learning
This information is provided as a general business resource and does not constitute legal, customs, tax or financial advice. Tariff treatment can vary by product and circumstance. Businesses should confirm requirements with appropriate government authorities, customs professionals or professional advisors.
Trade diversification is becoming increasingly important as businesses manage changes in the Canada U.S. relationship.
Canada has trade agreements and commercial relationships with markets around the world. Businesses can explore opportunities to diversify customers, suppliers and international partnerships while continuing to participate in the North American market.
SWRBOT Trade Hub
The Surrey & White Rock Trade Hub supports international and interprovincial business growth by helping businesses build connections and explore new markets.
SWRBOT has relationships with Consulate Offices, Chambers of Commerce and other organizations across more than 20 international markets.
Yes.
SWRBOT India Trade Mission 2027
SWRBOT will lead a 15 day India Trade Mission from February 8 to 22, 2027.
The mission is part of SWRBOT’s broader commitment to trade diversification and will connect businesses with market opportunities, business leaders, government representatives and international networks in Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru.
RBC Trade Hub
RBC’s Trade Hub provides current research, data and analysis on international trade, the Canada U.S. relationship, CUSMA, infrastructure, supply chains and Canada’s economic competitiveness. The hub continues to publish new analysis throughout 2026.
