Jennifer MacMichael, a server at Carman’s Diner in St. Stephen, near the New Brunswick-U.S. border, is attuned to the local chatter. Overheard discussions among breakfast patrons on Monday highlighted concerns about potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
Reflecting on the economic implications, MacMichael expressed worries about business impacts and how the tariffs might affect the local economy.
Situated close to Calais, Maine, St. Stephen faces the imminent imposition of a 25% tariff on goods heading southward, originating from not only St. Stephen but all of Canada.
Following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of a 30-day delay in U.S. tariffs on Canada, the looming threat presents potential economic challenges on both sides of the border, leading to increased product prices and potential business obstacles.
Decreasing Cross-Border Travel
Prior to the tariff delay, MacMichael mentioned her intention to limit border crossings, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one’s own country’s interests.
Resident Sylva Cassells, residing near St. Stephen, expressed mixed feelings about the tariff implications on her connections with individuals and businesses in Calais, contemplating revised spending decisions across the border.
With a focus on supporting local businesses, Donald Hunter from St. Stephen emphasized his commitment to Canadian products and pledged to scrutinize product origins in light of potential U.S. tariffs.
Similarly, Sheila Saban, a supporter of Canadian products, affirmed her commitment to buying local, excluding items like Florida orange juice and U.S.-manufactured cat food from her shopping list.
As a recent resident of the St. Stephen area, Saban highlighted a sense of interconnectedness with the U.S., which she feels has been disrupted by the tariffs, leading to a sentiment of betrayal among Canadians.