KIRNDEEP NAHAL
VERNON — This letter was sent to Prime Minister Trudeau with concern regarding the potential tariffs and addressing local impacts. We are urging the federal government to resume Parliament as soon as possible to take action to protect our community and nation from this threat.
Dear Prime Minister Trudeau, Minister Sajjan and Minister Ng,
I am writing on behalf of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce to express our deep concern regarding the potential 25% tariff the United States may impose on Canadian goods. Should this tariff be enacted, it would have a profound and negative effect on businesses in our community, ultimately harming the local economy and employment opportunities.
Two key local businesses in Vernon stand to face severe repercussions if these tariffs are implemented. One large manufacturer, employing over 100 people, derives 75% of its revenue from exports to the United States. Similarly, another major local employer, sells 40% of its products south of the border. These companies are vital to our local economy, providing jobs and contributing to the overall prosperity of our region. The proposed tariffs threaten their operations, with potential ripple effects likely to be felt across their supply chains, employees and the broader community.
Every day, $3.6 billion in goods crosses the Canada-U.S. border, fueling a $1.3 trillion annual trade relationship. This partnership supports 2.3 million Canadian jobs and 1.4 million American jobs. New data from the Canadian Chamber’s Business Data Lab reveals that the proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods would reduce real annual income by $1,900 CAD per Canadian and $1,300 USD per American.
At a time when businesses are already navigating economic uncertainty, the introduction of these tariffs would further strain their ability to remain competitive. Swift action by the government is urgently needed to address this critical issue and to ensure that Canadian businesses are not unfairly disadvantaged.
The effectiveness of our government in responding to this challenge is being severely impeded by the current prorogation of Parliament until March 24th. This delay is unacceptable. At a time of such pressing need, our nation requires strong leadership and decisive action to mitigate the potential impacts of these tariffs and to collaborate with our trading partners on a united response.
We urge the federal government to reconvene Parliament as soon as possible so that our elected officials can prioritize addressing this urgent issue and take action to protect Canadian businesses and jobs. The livelihoods of our residents and the future of our local economy depend on it.
Thank you for your attention to this important issue. We trust that you will advocate for the immediate resumption of Parliament and action to protect our community and the nation from the economic impact of these tariffs.
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce remains ready to work with you and provide any additional information or support needed.
Sincerely, Kirndeep Nahal, President, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
Kirndeep Nahal is President of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce
