Disclaimer: This resource page is regularly updated as new information becomes available. It is designed to be dynamic, evolving with the situation to provide the most relevant news, support programs, and resources. We encourage you to check back often for the latest updates or reach out to us at contact@sarnialambton.on.ca.
As global trade policies evolve, businesses in Sarnia-Lambton are facing new challenges due to changing tariffs and economic uncertainties. The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP) is committed to supporting our local business community by providing guidance, resources, and connections to help navigate these developments.
Recent Developments: U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Goods
On March 4, 2025, the United States administration has decided to proceed with imposing 25 percent tariffs on Canadian exports and 10 percent tariffs on Canadian energy.
For the latest information on Canada-US relations, visit: Canada’s engagement with the United States
How Tariffs Impact Sarnia-Lambton Businesses
Sarnia-Lambton’s economy is closely tied to international trade, with strong connections to the manufacturing, chemicals, and agricultural sectors. The imposed tariffs are expected to affect these industries by increasing costs, disrupting supply chains, and creating uncertainties in investment opportunities.
To help businesses respond effectively and mitigate risks, SLEP is actively monitoring the situation and working closely with government partners, industry associations, and business support organizations to ensure local businesses have access to accurate information, resources, and strategic guidance.
While these changes present challenges, we are committed to helping businesses adapt by providing insights on potential cost-saving strategies, supply chain adjustments, and alternative market opportunities. We encourage businesses to reach out so we can explore solutions together.
Federal Feedback Sought on Tariff Measures
- The federal government welcomes views on the proposed tariff measures, including the scope of the measures as outlined in Table 1. Submissions will be accepted until March 25, 2025. Submit your feedback by completing the Consultations on Canada’s Response to United States Tariffs on Canadian Goods: Comment Submission Form
- If you wish to provide additional information not included in the above form, as well as any additional views or comments you would like to provide on Canada’s tariff response, please e-mail consultations@fin.gc.ca, and include “U.S. Tariff Consultations” in the subject line.
- For full details, visit Notice of Intent to Impose Countermeasures in Response to U.S. Tariffs – Canada.ca
- If you have questions or input about the proposed tariffs and as it pertains to adding or removing Harmonized System (HS) codes of American made products from the list from the website above, please direct them to the following e-mail address, financepublic-financepublique@fin.gc.ca.
SLEP Resources for Businesses
We understand the challenges these changes may pose, and we are committed to helping local businesses navigate this shifting trade environment. Whether you need assistance understanding the implications of new tariffs, exploring alternative markets, or accessing business resources, our team is here to help.
Connect with us by calling 519-332-1820 or emailing contact@sarnialambton.on.ca to discuss your business challenges and explore other available resources that can be of assistance.
Support for Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses
Our Business Enterprise Centre is also available to provide one-on-one business support, seminars, workshops and other small business tailored resources.
Contact us at smallbusiness@sarnialambton.on.ca to learn about the free services that can help you at any stage of your entrepreneurship journey, or complete our easy online Small Business Centre Intake Form to have one of our counsellors reach out to you.
Support for Established Businesses
Our business retention & expansion team is available to meet with business owners to learn about their operation and how tariffs and uncertainty may be creating challenges and concerns for their business, and how we can take action to support. Meet with an economic development officer by contacting chantelle@sarnialambton.on.ca.
The Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership (SLEP), in collaboration with Invest Sarnia and local economic development organizations, is pleased to announce the launch of the Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Survey. This initiative aims to gather valuable insights from businesses across Sarnia-Lambton to better understand their needs, challenges, and opportunities for growth. https://sarnialambton.on.ca/bresurvey
Key Partner Resources for Businesses, Exporters & Importers
For the latest news on the Government of Canada’s response, click here.
If your business is affected by tariffs, here are key resources available to help you adapt and find solutions:
- Global Affairs Canada – Trade Commissioner Service
- Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters
- Export Development Canada
- Business Development Bank of Canada
- Farm Credit Canada
- Innovation, Science & Economic Development Canada
- Ministry of Economic Development & Trade
- Canada Tariff Finder
Available Incentives
For more information on programs and incentives that can support your business, we encourage you to contact our team at the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership by calling 519-332-1820 or email contact@sarnialambton.on.ca. Our team is here to help navigate available resources and opportunities.
- The Government of Canada is launching the Trade Impact Program through Export Development Canada. The program will deploy $5 billion over two years, starting this year, to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the economic challenges imposed by the tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows, and barriers to expansion.
- The Government of Canada is making $500 million in favourably priced loans available through the Business Development Bank of Canada to support impacted businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs, as well as companies in their supply chains. Businesses will also benefit from advisory services in areas such as financial management and market diversification.
- The Government of Canada is providing $1 billion in new financing through Farm Credit Canada to reduce financial barriers for the Canadian agriculture and food industry. This lending offer will help address cash flow challenges so that businesses can adjust to a new operating environment and continue to supply the high-quality agricultural and food products that Canadians rely on.
- Financial Support Available for Farm Businesses: OFA Summary of Govt Financial Assistance Measures – March 7 2025 from the Ontario Federation of Agriculture
Support Sarnia-Lambton Made, Ontario Made and Canada Made
Your purchase matters. By buying Sarnia-Lambton, Ontario & Canada Made products, you are directly supporting incredible manufacturers, makers, retailers, and their employees.
Sarnia-Lambton
To identify and support Sarnia-Lambton based businesses, please visit our business directory and the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce member directory.
To list your business in the SLEP Business Directory, if it is not already active, please register through this link.
Ontario
To grow a stronger economy for Ontarians, please support these companies and their Ontario-made products.
If you are a manufacturer or retailer, please register to participate for Ontario Made:
- Manufacturers – https://supportontariomade.ca/manufacturers
- Retailers – https://supportontariomade.ca/retailers
Canada
You can also find out which products are made in Canada, or register the production of your business’s products by visiting https://madeinca.ca/