Ontario Chamber of Commerce Condemns U.S. Tariffs: Calls for Immediate Action to Protect Economies on Both Sides of the Border

Toronto, ON—(March 4, 2025)—Today, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) President and CEO, Daniel Tisch, released the following statement strongly condemning the United States’ imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, calling the move reckless and harmful to both economies.

“The U.S. president’s reckless, unprovoked trade war against Canada will lower the standard of living for every American and every Canadian – ignoring the will of the American people, the advice of the U.S. business community, and the trade agreement he negotiated and signed. Unless the U.S. pulls back, it will mean higher prices, lost jobs and investment, and struggling businesses on both sides of the border. It’s not putting America first; it’s more likely to put North America last.

The fastest way out of this madness requires a firm Canadian response coupled with an offer for dialogue. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has urged our provincial and federal governments to support businesses and protect investment, and to take immediate and long-term steps to enhance Canada’s resilience.

This is a time to prioritize competitiveness over complacency, diversification over dependence, and resilience over resistance to change. We are encouraged by the unity between business and political leaders. The Ontario Chamber will continue to convene, mobilize and empower businesses and chambers at this critical time, and to work with our government partners to turn talk into action.”

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce remains committed to working with businesses across all sectors and in all communities, as well as with chambers of commerce across the country, to mitigate the economic fallout of these tariffs and ensure Ontario businesses remain globally competitive.

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About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada’s largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non-profit advocacy and member services organization representing a diverse network of 60,000 members. The OCC convenes, mobilizes and empowers business and local chambers in pursuit of its purpose: to bring inclusive and sustainable prosperity to Ontario’s businesses, workers, and communities.

For more information, please contact:
Julie Martini
Vice President of Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
juliemartini@occ.ca | Phone: (647) 269-0155