Business Resources & Support: U.S. Tariff Updates & Strategic Guidance 

NewsResources
Written By Julia Pazzano

Ignite has gathered essential resources and information from ecosystem partners to help keep our business community informed and prepared. Below, you will find details on upcoming webinars, government resources, and programs designed to support businesses navigating trade challenges. 

This is a live document and will be continuously updated as more information and advocacy efforts emerge. 

If you would like to suggest an addition to this list, please contact us at marketing@myignite.ca. 

Latest Tariff Updates & Government Response 

On February 3, 2025, Canada and the United States agreed to delay the imposition of respective tariffs on imported goods. 

  • Tariff Information & Business Support: Click Here *UPDATED APRIL 2

  • Government of New Brunswick Situational Updates: Click Here *UPDATED APRIL 2

  • Premier’s Response to the 30-Day Pause - Feb 4 : Click Here 

  • GNB Tariff Action Plan - March 4: Click Here

  • Government shares provincial tariff action plan (GNB) - March 4: Click Here

  • Statement by the Prime Minister on unjustified U.S. tariffs against Canada - March 3

  • CBC Trump pausing tariffs on some Canadian goods until April 2 - March 6: Click Here

  • News Release from the Department of Finance Canada - March 7: Click Here

  • List of products from the United States subject to 25% tariffs effective March 4, 2025: Click Here

  • Canada’s countermeasure, reciprocal tariffs of 25% - List of products: Click Here

  • Finance Canada - Process for requesting remission of tariffs: Click Here

  • Trade Commissioner Service: Click Here

  • Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters - Information Hub – Trade & Tariffs: Click Here

  • The U.S. Reciprocal Tariff Plan - April 3: Click Here

Advocacy

With all the uncertainty around tariffs and trade policies, it’s more important than ever for businesses to speak up and stay involved. Whether it’s pushing for policy changes, working with industry groups, or simply staying informed, advocacy helps protect businesses and keeps our economy strong. Below are key initiatives and statements from advocacy groups working to address the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs. 

  • Letter to Premier Holt Supporting New Brunswick’s Response - Feb 3 : Click Here 

  • Canadian Chamber Statement Regarding Reciprocal Tariffs - Feb 13 : Click Here

  • U.S. Chamber Urges Swift End to Tariffs - March 3: Click Here

  • Statement from Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) President and CEO - March 6: Click Here

  • Canadian Federation of Independent Business’ Question Form: Click Here

  • Joint Letter to New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt and Governor of Maine Janet Mills from The Chambers of Commerce of Fredericton, Greater Moncton, and Saint John Region with the Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce: Click Here

  • Response from Premier Holt to Joint Chambers of Commerce Letter re: Canada-US Relations: Click Here

  • The Conference Board of Canada Economic Quick Take - Canada Spared the Worst on “Liberation” Day, but Uncertainty and Mayhem Continue: Click Here

  • Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters in the news:

Upcoming Webinars/ Info Sessions 

  • ONB Export Webinar Series 

    • Webinar 1 - Feb 6 : Tariffs 101 & GNB Response Action Plan - Watch Here 

    • Webinar 2: Tariffs 102 & Panel Discussion with Trade Experts

    • Webinar 3: Tariff Response – Provincial & Federal Resources & Support for Companies

  • Fredericton, Greater Moncton, and Saint John Region Chambers of Commerce: Diversifying Trade Relationships: Unlock New Opportunities March 26

  • Fredericton Chamber of Commerce - Virtual townhall: Trade relationships, tourism and the impact of uncertainty

  • Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters - Tariff Webinar: Federal Worksharing / Employment Insurance Support

  • Canada’s Changing Geopolitical Landscape: Rethinking Global Partnerships

    • April 14 | 3PM EST | Virtual - Register Here

Government & Business Support Programs 

  • Opportunities New Brunswick (ONB) Business Navigators: Providing guidance on tariff changes, trade challenges, and growth strategies. 

  • Join Canada Connect: A virtual B2B program for NB Exporters: Click Here 

  • Atlantic Chamber of Commerce: Market Entry Development Program - Supporting businesses in expanding into European & Indo-Pacific markets through trade agreements like CETA & CPTPP. Click Here 

  • Ignite Business Growth – offering mentoring/coaching, programming, and networking opportunities for businesses in all stages. Click Here 

  • Export Development Canada Trade Impact Program - financial support to help exporters reach new markets for Canadian products. Click Here

  • Business Development Bank of Canada - offering loans to support impacted businesses in sectors directly targeted by tariffs. Click Here

  • Farm Credit Canada - offering financial support to reduce financial barriers for the Canadian agriculture and food industry. Click Here

  • Updates to the EI Work-Sharing Program - The Work-Sharing Program provides EI benefits to employees who agree with their employer to work reduced hours due to a decrease in business activity beyond their employer’s control. Click Here

Additional Resources 

  • In response to new U.S. tariff policies, the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation (NBIF) has created a list of resources to help New Brunswick tech startups understand the updates and make informed decisions:  Click Here 

  • Atlantic Chamber of Commerce US Canada Tariff Information: Click Here

  • Symplicity Designs “Chaos Playbook” Webinar & Updated Playbook: Click Here

  • BDC’s Tariff Checklist - How to prepare your business for trade uncertainty: Click Here

  • Canada Tariff Finder - Customs & Duty Calculator : Click Here

Support Local & Stay Informed 

We encourage all businesses to stay engaged, prepare for evolving trade dynamics, and explore new growth opportunities while supporting local businesses. If you are looking to support local businesses, check out the directories below.

Julia Pazzano
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