Tariffs on Canadian goods raise cost concerns for New York businesses and farms
New tariffs on Canadian goods are creating uncertainty for New York contractors, farmers and consumers, while Canada has threatened retaliatory penalties.
New U.S. tariffs on more than $20 billion in Canadian goods, including cement, steel, lumber, clothing, furniture and hockey sticks, took effect this weekend. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has threatened retaliation, with Canadian penalties expected to begin Sept. 8.
Ryan Monarch, an economics professor at Syracuse University, said the tariffs could raise costs and add uncertainty for businesses and consumers in both countries. Joe Hogan of the Associated General Contractors of New York State said changing prices could complicate bids for construction projects, including public work.
Farmer Karin Reeves said her operation gets fertilizer ingredients, including potash, from Canada. She also said uncertainty over future tariffs has made it difficult to obtain a firm price for farm equipment. Reeves said the new tariffs are less significant for her operation than other tariffs imposed since President Donald Trump took office, but that the uncertainty remains a concern.
This story was written from a community submission and reviewed by a ClickNNY editor before publication.