Impacts of Tariffs on York Region Community
York Region is committed to supporting our local economy, supporting businesses and ensuring long-term prosperity of our communities.
The tariffs imposed by the United States and China on Canadian imports negatively impact our economy and adversely affect the residents and businesses that call York Region home. This will have short and long-term impacts on global trade.
With tariffs in effect, the cost of goods and services may increase, including necessities like groceries or projects such as home renovations.
These tariffs will pose risks to local jobs and the overall economic strength of York Region, Ontario and Canada.
About 2,900 companies in York Region export goods and services, most destined to the United States market.
An estimated 12% of total jobs in York Region are with companies identified as exporters. In addition, there are approximately 9,000 importers with over 5,000 trading with the United States specifically.
York Region continues to monitor and work with partners and all levels of government as the situation evolves to ensure our communities are prioritized.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a business in York Region; how can I get support?
During this time of trade uncertainty, York Region is leveraging the Economic Development Action Plan and working collaboratively with municipal partners to engage and support local businesses, including:
- Business Recovery Support Partnership: Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, this partnership includes key stakeholders with a purpose of sharing information, supporting collaborative tariff-focused initiatives and ensure consistent communication as we work to support local businesses
- Research and Analysis: Ongoing research and data collection to understand impacts of tariffs on the economy and businesses and develop targeted actions
- Business Advisory and Support: Collaboration with economic development stakeholders like local municipalities, the York Small Business Enterprise Centre, Chambers of Commerce, academic and innovation partners to provide business advisory consultation, group workshops and other business supports
- Business Communications: Provide up-to-date information and resources to impacted businesses, including outreach through York Link digital channels
Federal and Provincial governments are anticipated to roll out financial relief programs, policy solutions and export diversification supports to assist businesses impacted by tariffs maintain production and employment, mitigate costs and diversify export clients and markets.
York Region Economic Strategy and municipal partners can advise businesses on available programs through business consultations when applicable.
If you are a business in York Region, find information on supports, resources and tariff-specific initiatives York Region Economic Strategy is undertaking at yorklink.ca/Trade
I am a resident. What does this mean to me?
Supporting the local York Region economy is important to continue the growth and viability of the community. This will also help sustain jobs in industries that may be impacted by tariffs.
Many imported goods may be subject to price increases through this time and our economy is at risk of inflation. When shopping, consider products made or produced in Canada.
Visit york.ca/SupportLocal to find more ways you can be part of the economic sustainability in your community.
Find out how you can support local in your community.
For additional inquiries, email yr.corporate.communications@york.ca
Other York Region Resources
Statement on U.S. Tariffs and Economic Resilience
Overview of Potential Economic and Fiscal Impacts of Tariffs, March 2025
