JASROOP GOSAL
SURREY – The Surrey Board of Trade is cautiously optimistic that US President Trump has decided to pause the implementation of 25% tariffs across the board and 10% tariffs on energy. While this does provide some reprieve, we still need to stand ready if and when tariffs are implemented.
Canada has committed to implementing a $1.3 billion plan to reinforce the border, enhance coordination with the US, and stop the flow of fentanyl. New commitments include appointing a Fentanyl Czar, listing cartels as terrorist organizations, ensuring 24/7 eyes on the border, and launching a joint strike force to fight organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering.
“The pause on the implementation of the tariffs is welcomed by the Surrey Board of Trade,” said Jasroop Gosal, Interim Spokesperson of the Surrey Board of Trade. “It’s imperative that decision makers know how tariffs may impact businesses. That is why we launched our survey on Canada-US trade in November.”
Surrey & White Rock businesses that trade with the United States are asked to complete a short survey. The information collected will be shared with local, provincial, federal, and international levels of government and will arm the Surrey Board of Trade to better stand up for local businesses.
This input will guide Surrey Board of Trade advocacy efforts, including cross-border business engagement and federal policy recommendations to mitigate tariff impacts.
CALL TO ACTION:
The Surrey Board of Trade calls on the federal and provincial governments to:
- Protect businesses by halting all taxation changes that would deter business growth;
- Immediately freeze all regulatory changes on industry that would add cost and red tape; and,
- Implement a strategic plan to ensure that businesses in the South Fraser Economic Region, which are particularly vulnerable to these tariffs as a result of the industries and proximity to the border, are provided with greater international trade support through the Surrey Board of Trade’s International Trade Centre.
Business Examiner Staff
