U.S. Tariff Chaos Hurts Business On Both Sides Of The Border

(Toronto, March 6, 2025) — The Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s President and CEO, Daniel Tisch, issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s decision to exempt goods under CUSMA from 25% tariffs until April 2:

“Unpredictability is a business killer. When policies change overnight, trade agreements aren’t respected, and decision-making is not transparent, businesses cannot plan, invest, or grow. While this exemption offers temporary relief, it does not address the underlying issue: Businesses in both countries need stable, predictable, and strategic trade policies to remain competitive.

“Canada’s response must continue to prioritize long-term solutions, including diversifying trade relationships, eliminating internal trade barriers, advancing a national energy corridor, and strengthening procurement and supply chain infrastructure. A strong, competitive country benefits both us and our closest trading partners.

“At the same time, we cannot afford to be complacent. Canada must prepare for worst-case scenarios and push for a swift renegotiation of CUSMA to ensure long-term stability for businesses across North America.”

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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:
Andrea Carmona
Senior Manager of Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
andreacarmona@occ.ca | Mobile: (647) 234-0255