Local businesses brace for U.S. tariff impacts

LEDUC COUNTY -- Local business and industry leaders are working to limit the economic strife posed by U.S. tariffs. 

This comes as the Chamber of Commerce for Leduc, Nisku & Wetaskiwin is expecting the tariffs to have a significant impact on local industry. This is due to many businesses relying on international cooperation with the United States for their supply chains and mutual economic growth.

Chamber of Commerce CEO Jennifer Garries says the impacts could be felt across multiple sectors.

"In our area we have everything," said Garries. "We have agriculture, we have our oil and gas companies, so it's going to affect a lot of businesses in different ways."

She says that many local businesses get their supplies directly from the United States, and that many will be forced to shift their focus towards establishing new connections with local and regional suppliers.

"It's going to change our business focus locally," said Garries in conversation with the One FM. "It could create more local production, trade with other areas, and hopefully result in more of our businesses working together." 

She expects the local oil and gas industry to be more resilient to negative impacts. In a statement, the Chamber of Commerce calls on the local business community to rally together in the wake of the tariff threat. They say that they'll be offering assistance to local businesses to connect them with local suppliers, advancing networking opportunities, and providing advocacy and resources.

Though they have been delayed until next month, Canadian goods entering the United States will see tariffs of 25% while energy crossing the border will be hit with 10% tariffs.