I am deeply concerned by President Donald Trump’s confirmation that, effective today, the United States will impose a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods. These tariffs pose a direct threat to our local economy, impacting key sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, and agriculture.

The Town of Whitby is working closely with the Region of Durham, municipalities across the province, and industry leaders to assess the local impact of tariffs and advocate for our community. Our initiatives include:

• Engagement and Consultation: The Town’s economic development team is engaging with local businesses and collaborating with economic development teams from across Durham. I have been in regular communication with our business community and will be hosting a Mayor’s Roundtable on Tariffs on March 5.
• Advocacy: The Town has been closely monitoring the tariff situation since Donald Trump won the presidential election in November 2024. On Feb. 4, Whitby Council approved a motion on tariffs, and a tariff section has been added to the Town’s advocacy landing page. Durham’s eight mayors and the regional chair have issued a joint statement supporting federal and provincial countermeasures, including a 25% import tariff on $155 billion in American goods. I have also joined Ontario’s Big City Mayors Tariff Working Group to strengthen our collective advocacy at the provincial and national levels. The Whitby Chamber of Commerce has joined chambers from across Ontario in signing a letter urging Canada’s premiers to dismantle internal trade barriers.
• Community Initiatives: We are supporting the Downtown Whitby BIA’s Shop Local and Win campaign throughout March, and I continue to spotlight local businesses in my monthly newsletter and on social media. The Town’s economic development team is also profiling local businesses each month. The Region is promoting local businesses through its Shop in Durham directories and Local Food Directory with plans to launch a promotional campaign to encourage people to shop local and visit Durham.
• Trade Diversification: The Durham Economic Development Partnership is developing a trade diversification strategy, including a trade directory showcasing Durham-based manufacturers. Local businesses with a product that can be sold internationally beyond the U.S. are encouraged to contact InvestDurham@durham.ca
• Business Resources: Invest Durham has launched a  Tariff Response landing page with information for businesses and consumers, including access to the Canada Tariff Finder, which helps companies navigate import and export tariffs in various markets.

We are committed to protecting local businesses, advocating for fair trade policies, and ensuring our economy remains strong. I urge Whitby residents to stand with us and support local businesses and products whenever possible.  

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jillian Follert
Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.314.9101
Email: follertj@whitby.ca

Erin Mikaluk
Manager, Communications and Creative Services, Town of Whitby
Phone: 289.314.6913
Email: mikaluke@whitby.ca