Several businesses in Ontario are preparing for tariffs and expressing resilience following unsuccessful trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. that ended in the implementation of a 50 per cent tariff on approximately $28 billion worth of Canadian goods, including steel, aluminum, and auto exports.

Kimberly Turner-Briscoe, the president of a steel fastener supplier and distributor in Scarborough, shared her challenges in navigating the impact of the trade war initiated by Trump. Despite facing difficulties such as shifting business focus away from the U.S. and staff layoffs, she commended the decision to walk away from a detrimental deal, emphasizing the importance of not compromising in such negotiations.

Statistics Canada reported that the affected items represent around nine per cent of Ontario’s total exports to the U.S. in 2025. In response to the imposed tariffs, Prime Minister Carney criticized the U.S.’s proposed terms as economically unsound and unfair, leading Canada to announce retaliatory tariffs across various sectors post-Labour Day.

Unifor national president Lana Payne expressed support for the government’s stance despite acknowledging the hardships faced by Canadian workers due to tariffs. The union, representing 320,000 workers, emphasized the necessity of standing united against unjust demands from the U.S. administration.

In a press conference, Ontario Premier Doug Ford applauded the decision to reject the trade deal, urging provincial unity to combat the repercussions. He reassured Ontarians of the province’s ability to weather the challenges ahead and reiterated the commitment to bolster impacted sectors and support affected workers.

Giles Gherson from the Toronto Region Board of Trade highlighted the adverse effects of the tariffs on local jobs and investments, urging coordinated efforts from provincial and federal authorities to address the situation. The call to bolster the economy through supporting local industries was echoed by Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, emphasizing the importance of community solidarity amid trade uncertainties.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown emphasized the significance of preserving Canadian interests in the face of trade disputes, urging collective action from all levels of government and industries to protect the nation’s economy and workforce.

Experts warned of the substantial costs Canadians may incur as a result of the ongoing trade conflict, with potential consequences including price hikes, job losses, and business closures. The need for a strategic approach in negotiations with the U.S. was highlighted to mitigate the adverse impacts on the economy and employment.