The Local Tariff Toolkit is the result of a collaborative effort between dedicated partners who recognized the growing need for clear, accessible trade resources right here in Peterborough. Developed through the shared expertise of local economic development teams and trade experts, this toolkit was designed to support businesses navigating the complexities of tariffs and global trade. With rising interest from local entrepreneurs and manufacturers in expanding to international markets, this resource equips businesses with the knowledge and tools they need to grow confidently beyond our borders.
Tariff Support
Updates
- Ontario government to introduce 'Buy Ontario' legislation | CTV News – November 20, 2025
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Trump drops tariffs on beef, coffee, tropical fruits amid consumer concerns - National | Globalnews.ca | Global News - November 14, 2025
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Trump Announces Additional 10 Per-Cent Tariff on Canada Over Ontario Ad | CTV News - October 26, 2025
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Canada offers tariff relief to some steel, aluminum products from U.S., China | CTV News – October 20, 2025
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Trump imposes 10% tariff on imported lumber and 25% on kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and furniture | CBC News – September 30, 2025
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U.S. President Donald Trump planning to implement import taxes of 100 per cent on pharmaceutical drugs, 50 per cent on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, 30 per cent on upholstered furniture and 25 per cent on heavy trucks | CBC News — September 25, 2025
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Prime Minister Carney Launches New Measures to Protect, Build, and Transform Canadian Strategic Industries (New Canadian Buying Policy & New Strategic Response Fund) | Government of Canada — September 5, 2025
Information and Support for Businesses
The Startup Canada Tariff Toolkit is designed to aid entrepreneurs and support organizations in navigating the complexities of tariffs, and their impact on Canadian businesses. It provides a comprehensive overview of national and regional support organizations, tariff regulations, how they affect supply chains and pricing, strategies for mitigating risks, and further international expansion. This resource guide is being updated frequently and in real time.
Expanding into Global Markets with Export Development Canada
Export Development Canada (EDC) helps Canadian businesses grow internationally with financing, insurance and trade expertise. Their tools and insights reduce risk and open doors to new markets. Learn more at EDC’s website.
For businesses seeking new markets, the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service provides support in over 160 locations worldwide. With 15 ratified Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) covering 49 countries, Canadian businesses can access 1.5 billion consumers.
Explore Canadian supply chain options through Canada’s business directories.
CanExport SMEs program helps businesses expand into new international markets with funding for market research, marketing, and business development. Applications open soon.
If your business imports these products, please let us know the quantities you are bringing in. We will work with Global Affairs Canada, provincial and federal agencies, and trade representatives to help you explore alternative sourcing options.
Resources for Businesses Facing Trade Uncertainty
The Canada Tariff Finder helps businesses check import and export tariffs for specific goods and markets, particularly in countries with which Canada has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
This tool provides:
- General tariff rates applicable to all nations
- Preferential rates under FTAs, including phase-out periods
- Side-by-side tariff comparisons for up to three countries or products
The Canada Tariff Finder is a collaborative initiative by the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), Export Development Canada (EDC), and the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service of Global Affairs Canada.
Canada-U.S. Trade Tracker: Business Data Lab - Examining our economic integration and the risks of tariffs
Government of Canada Tariff Remission Process - To seek an exception to the counter tariffs on goods coming into Canada from the U.S.
Funding & Financial Assistance
Canada's Employment Insurance (EI)'s Work-Sharing Program
Canada's Employment Insurance (EI)'s Work-Sharing Program is an adjustment program designed to help employers and employees avoid layoffs when there is a temporary reduction in the normal level of business activity that is beyond the control of the employer. It provides income support to employees eligible for Employment Insurance benefits who work a temporarily reduced work while their employer recovers.
Export Development Canada Trade Impact Program
Export Development Canada will offer $5 billion in new facilities over 2 years to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products and help companies navigate the challenges imposed by tariffs, including losses from non-payment, currency fluctuations, lack of access to cash flows, and barriers to expansion.
Funding that Helps Your Company Grow in Global Markets
If you're looking for funding that helps your company grow in global markets, CanExport SMEs program is accepting applications.
Ontario Government Funding Opportunities
The Ontario Government Funding Opportunities provide financial support for businesses.
Business Development Canada (BDC) will offer $500 million in new lending. BDC's Pivot to Grow Loan program will provide financing, advice and loan deferrals to small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) financially impacted by the chill effects of potential or imposed U.S. tariffs.
Trade Disruption Customer Support Program
Farm Credit Canada (FCC) will offer $1 billion in new lending through the Trade Disruption Customer Support Program. This program features access to an additional credit line of up to $500,000 along with new term loans. FCC customers will have the option to defer principal payments for up to 12 months on current loans.
Ontario's Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem
The TrilliumGIS database, maintained by the Trillium Network, provides comprehensive data on Ontario's manufacturing sector, including:
- Manufacturing establishments
- Supply chain connections
- Business-to-business opportunities
- Innovation partnerships