Tariffs and trade have been the main topics of conversation on both sides of the border lately, as businesses decide on their own next steps during months of on-again off-again talks between Canada and the United States. “We are hearing from our members that this uncertainty is creating a pause, or it is actually, in fact, stunting investment they are putting into all forms of infrastructure,” says Don Bureaux, Halifax Chamber of Commerce president. Canadian and American trade negotiators were all smiles as they emerged from meetings in Washington where a deal between the two countries has reportedly been struck. Dairy, forestry and automobiles were among the topics on the table. That’s great news for business owners if the agreement is followed by the countries signing it. “There is some concern that we’re hearing from our members right now in this current climate, this current environment that there have been some agreements signed in other parts of the world where those agreements were signed and changed afterwards,” Bureaux says. Even with a deal in place, some people say they’ll be paying extra attention, while others say its out of our control. “I’m absolutely paying attention to it, I think it’s important for everybody to be informed about what’s going on,” says Reno, Nevada, resident, Nikki McGuire. “No, I’m not interested in it. It’s way beyond my control, politicians are going to do what they’re going to do for public opinion, public votes,” says Damian Morrissey of Halifax. The potential trade agreement has delayed the 50 per cent tariffs set to come in on Friday. Further details about what’s included in the deal haven’t yet been released. Late Wednesday afternoon, Prime Minister Mark Carney held a meeting with his cabinet to discuss trade details. The Prime Minister was then scheduled to discuss this trade deal with the premiers at 5:30 p.m. AST. Both meetings were closed to the media. For more Nova Scotia news, visit our dedicated provincial page
