Economic Development Cowichan was pleased to host Brady Calancie from Export Navigator for an engaging and informative free webinar on the ever-evolving global tariff landscape on May 22, 2025. The session offered Cowichan-based businesses timely guidance on navigating export opportunities amid rising trade tensions and shifting consumer sentiment. While challenges persist, these shifts are also opening doors for businesses to explore new markets, adjust supply chains, and capitalize on growing demand for Canadian-made goods.
Understanding the Current Tariff Landscape
Brady provided a comprehensive overview of the international trade climate, highlighting the impact of recent U.S.-imposed tariffs:
- 25% tariffs on non-conforming Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) products
- 10% U.S. tariff on energy and potash
- 25% tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles
- Pending U.S tariffs under review: semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, lumber, copper, and digital services
- Canada’s 25% counter-tariffs on U.S. products, including steel, aluminum, and certain vehicles
Brady also addressed the stacking effect of overlapping U.S. tariffs, where Canadian goods may be subject to multiple levies, as well as the temporary pauses on some reciprocal tariffs for 90 days.
Brady emphasized that while these trade dynamics create challenges, they also open up space for Canadian businesses to diversify and strengthen domestic and interprovincial trade networks, especially in light of planned reductions in trade barriers within Canada.
How Tariffs Are Affecting Canadian Businesses
Brady shared findings from the Bank of Canada and additional trade data that painted a nuanced picture:
- 60% of businesses expect increased input costs due to tariffs
- Many businesses plan to pass these costs onto consumers
- Consumer confidence is waning, with reduced spending on non-essential items
- Supply chain pressures are prompting more businesses to source locally or regionally
However, over 50% of consumers now prefer Canadian-made products, offering new market advantages for local producers.
Export Navigator: Free Support to Grow International Sales
Brady also showcased how the Export Navigator program helps Cowichan businesses navigate uncertainty and find success both internationally and across provinces. Key features include:
- No-cost, one-on-one export advisory services
- Customized export strategies tailored to your business
- Ongoing support with no time limitations
- A proven track record, with participating businesses seeing up to 50% growth in international sales
While often associated with global markets, Export Navigator also supports expansion across provincial borders. The program assists businesses in identifying opportunities and navigating regulatory differences in trade between provinces. With interprovincial trade liberalization on the horizon, especially in sectors like food and beverage, BC businesses are increasingly well-positioned to tap into new domestic markets. Export Navigator provides strategic guidance for businesses looking to scale beyond BC while staying resilience in the face of global uncertainty.
Strategies for Success
Brady emphasized the need for adaptability and proactive planning. His recommendations included:
- Bulletproof your export process with accurate classifications and documentation
- Localize supply chains and content values
- Diversify market strategies and customer bases
- Review supply chains and explore alternative suppliers
- Collaborate with competitors to find efficiencies
Utilize government-backed support programs, such as:
- Export Development Canada’s $5B trade fund
- Business Development Bank of Canada’s $500M in loans
- Farm Credit Canada’s $1B to help ease cash flow
- CanExport and Work-Share programs
- The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP)
- Mohawk Global and Pacific Customs Brokers for customs and trade advisory
- Economic Development Cowichan’s Navigating Tariffs resource page
Upcoming Opportunities
Export Navigator is also launching several key initiatives in the months ahead such as the Vancouver Island Export Program (launching this October), and the Trade Accelerator Program- and intensive planning support (learn more here).
Final Thoughts
Brady’s message was clear: while the global trade environment remains complex, Cowichan businesses are well-positioned to adapt and thrive. By staying informed, diversifying markets, and leveraging robust federal and provincial support, local exporters can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s opportunities. For tailored export support, reach out to Brady and the Export Navigator team at www.exportnavigator.ca or brady@exportnavigator.ca.
