Tariff tensions fuel ‘buy local’ surge in Halifax

What tariffs might mean for Maritime consumers.

United States tariffs on Canadian exports are driving consumers in the Maritimes to change their shopping behaviours.

A recent poll from Halifax-based Narrative Research shows that Trump’s tariff policies are forcing Canadian shoppers to avoid American products in favour of local options.

According to the poll, 75 per cent of Canadians said they have changed their purchasing habits, including 63 per cent saying they’ve shifted to look for Canadian options.

“Canadians are taking action where they can in response to Trump’s tariffs,” said Margaret Chapman, COO & partner at Narrative Research. “Ultimately these choices could boost Canadian manufacturers’ sales, as well as potentially having other positive impacts, for example, boosting Canadian tourism as residents choose to travel within our borders.”

Halifax shop sees surge in local shoppers

Local Source Market in Halifax’s north end, is known for its locally sourced products and is seeing an influx of new customers as more Canadians look to support homegrown businesses in the wake of U.S. tariffs.

“I think people are excited to band together and celebrate what we are able to provide for our community,” said Local Source Market manager Dani Belanger.

While the shop typically imports very little from the U.S. – except mainly citrus fruits – Belanger says they’ve stopped doing that due to trade tensions, and are instead highlighting the Maritimes and products from across Canada.

“Even though it is coming from a frustrating political climate, it is a good opportunity to get to know your local producers,” Belanger said. “We love to story-tell here, and I can tell you more specific things about who is bringing in the product, why they are great, and why you are also supporting nice people.”

For some, buying local has become a personal boycott.

“Right now, I have to say I can’t do it,” said shopper Jim D’Ambrogi, when asked about buying American products. “Yes, absolutely [I’m boycotting]. I thought maybe if there’s something I can’t find, I might, but I feel sorry for the American citizens.”

D’Ambrogi, who grew up in the U.S. before becoming a Canadian citizen, says the tariff war has fueled a sense of national pride in supporting Canadian-made goods.

Others see the trade dispute as a wake-up call.

“It’s a wake-up call for all of us and how we can be a little more independent, especially around our food in our province,” said shopper Susan Szpakowski. “It’s always been a vulnerability, but now it’s just become more obvious.”

Independent business association urges shoppers to buy local

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) says there are more than 4,200 independent businesses in Nova Scotia that could be directly or indirectly affected by U.S. tariffs. The organization is urging consumers to rethink their spending habits.

“We hope to see people choose local and shop local whenever possible – the benefits are there,” said CFIB Nova Scotia spokesperson Duncan Robertson. “Our research shows that around 66 cents of every dollar spent stays in that community.”

With growing concerns over trade uncertainty, it’s clear some Nova Scotians are using their wallets to send a message, and one that supports businesses closest to home.

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