Navigating Tariffs

Whitby is committed to supporting local businesses and working with its community, regional, provincial, and federal partners to combat U.S. imposed tariffs, protect the local economy, and keep jobs. This page is intended to serve as a resource for both businesses and residents looking to support them during this uncertain time.

Whitby’s Response to Tariffs, Business Resources, and Supporting Local

Response from the Town of Whitby

The Town of Whitby is committed to making responsible and forward-thinking decisions that align with our community values and economic priorities. As part of this commitment, we have cancelled our contract with Starlink, discontinued our presence on X (formerly Twitter), and implemented restrictions on business travel to the United States. Additionally, we are reviewing our procurement policies to explore opportunities that further support Canadian businesses and strengthen our local economy. These initiatives reflect our dedication to our local economy and sovereignty of our Nation.

In addition, Mayor Roy’s Tariff Task Force has been established in partnership with the Town of Whitby's Economic Development Team and local businesses to collaborate on solutions, advise, and inform our local actions.

The Town is actively working with its community, regional, provincial, and federal partners to combat trade tariffs, protect the local economy, and keep jobs.

As an executive member of Ontario Big City Mayors (OBCM), Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy is working closely with other mayors across Ontario to address tariffs, including joining a new OBCM working group focused on this issue. OBCM passed a resolution on tariffs.
On Feb. 4, Whitby Council approved a motion from Mayor Roy in support of the provincial and federal governments' efforts to strike a trade deal with the U.S. The motion calls on the Prime Minister, federal ministers and the federal government’s Canada-U.S. relations council to take all measures to protect the interests of Ontario in upcoming trade negotiations and calls for removal of impediments to municipalities favouring Canadian companies for capital projects and supplies.
Durham’s eight mayors and the regional chair have issued a joint statement in support of the federal and provincial government’s response to implement a 25 per cent import tariffs on $155 billion of American goods.
Invest Durham has created a Tariff Response landing page with a wealth of information and resources for local businesses and consumers, including a link to the Canada Tariff Finder, which enables businesses to check import or export tariffs for specific goods and markets.
Durham Economic Task Force (DETF) is working on a trade diversification support initiative, including a trade directory of Durham producers and products. The aim is to have the directory available at Hannover Messe -- one of the world's largest trade fairs, taking place in Germany in April – to present Durham manufacturers to possible European Union buyers.
We are continuing to encourage collaborative action at all levels of government to work together & share costs to support solutions that will improve our residents’ quality of life.

Information and Resources for Local Businesses

If your business is affected by tariffs and you need guidance, we are here to help. Reach out to our Economic Development team for personalized support and resources.

Email: EcDev@whitby.ca
Phone: 905.430.4312

Funding and Support Tools

Federal Government Funding and Support Tools

Trade Impact Program - Export Development Canada - $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.
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.
$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.
Temporary flexibilities (from March 7, 2025 to March 6, 2026), to the EI Work-Sharing Program to increase access and maximum agreement duration. Under this program, Employees who agree with their employer to work reduced hours due to a decrease in business activity beyond their employer's control, may maintain their employment and skills while supplementing the reduced wages with EI benefits. This program also helps employers retain experienced workers and avoid layoffs.
Canada Tariff Finder – BDC – Quickly retrieve tariff details for specific products and markets.
ISED Business Funding Portal – Find government programs, services, and funding opportunities for businesses.

More information

Provincial Government Funding and Support Tools

Province of Ontario Trade Resources – Explore provincial support programs for exporters and importers.
Trillium Network GIS Map – Access information on Ontario’s manufacturing sector and ecosystem partners.

Industry and Trade Support

Canadian Chamber of Commerce - Published the All-In Canada Plan to address the critical roadblocks that have left Canada dependent on trade with the United States.
Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) – Provides overviews of U.S. tariffs, de minimis treatment, and advocacy efforts.
Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC) – Offers a "Member Needs Help" program for manufacturers, providing peer and expert guidance on trade relations.
Export Development Canada (EDC) – Supports businesses with trade diversification, tariff preparation, and webinars.
Government of Canada Trade Commissioner Service – Assists businesses in exploring new markets, navigating tariffs, and connecting with global trade opportunities.
Invest Durham Tariff Response – Explore the ways the Durham Economic Task Force is working closely with federal, provincial, and local partners to support local businesses.
Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade (MEDJCT) – Offers funding and market expansion resources for business growth.
Ontario Chamber of Commerce – Provides a 10-step resource guide to help businesses stay competitive amid tariff changes.
Ontario Big Mayors – Read the Ontario Big Mayors Motion in Support of Provincial and Federal Governments Negotiations with the U.S Government on Trade Tariffs.
Whitby Chamber of Commerce - Advocating for Whitby businesses through collaboration with the Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.

Your Network: Industry Associations

Information for Residents (Supporting Local)

Choosing Canadian-made products helps strengthen our local economy and supports businesses affected by tariffs. Explore these resources to find Canadian suppliers and locally made products:

Canada’s Business Directories – Discover Canadian suppliers and businesses to build a stronger local supply chain.
Ontario Made Product Series – Showcase and source Ontario-made products. Apply for free to support locally produced goods.
Made in CA – A valuable platform highlighting Canadian-made products and businesses.
Shop In Durham - Explore the Durham Tourism page dedicated to shopping locally in Durham Region.
Local Food Directory - Find local food, beverages, and farm markets in Invest Durham’s Local Food Directory.
Shop Local & Win - The Downtown Whitby BIA has launched a Shop Local campaign for the month of March, including offering customers the chance to upload their receipts from Downtown Whitby businesses for the chance to win cash prizes.

Product of Canada vs. Made in Canada

Under the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, a "Product of Canada" label means almost all — at least 98 per cent — of the total direct costs of producing the item were incurred in Canada. Essentially, the product was made in Canada by Canadians, with negligible imported elements.

If a product is 100 per cent Canadian, the label can say exactly that.

"Made in Canada," meanwhile, means more than half of the total direct costs were incurred in Canada — at least 51 per cent – but less than 98 per cent.

The Competition Bureau encourages qualifying statements for that label, such as "Made in Canada with imported parts," or "Made in Canada with 60 per cent Canadian content and 40 per cent imported content."

For both of those longer labels, the product has to have undergone its "last substantial transformation" in Canada — for example, turning dough, sauce and cheese into pizza.

If a product has Canadian elements but doesn't meet the threshold for "Product of" or "Made in," the Competition Bureau recommends more specific terms, like "Assembled in Canada with foreign parts."

Watch:

Stay Informed

Upcoming Events, Trainings, and Webinars

March 19 - MP Ryan Turnbull - Virtual Town Hall Series - Tariff Threats

March 20 - Whitby Chamber of Commerce - Impact of Tariffs on Durham Region Businesses Webinar

Subscribe to Whitby’s business newsletter for the latest economic development news and tariff-related updates. Follow the Town of Whitby on Facebook and LinkedIn for regular updates.

Businesses are also encouraged to subscribe to Invest Durham’s e-Newsletter.