Quebec farmers brace for impending U.S. tariffs

As U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to impose tariffs on some Canadian goods entering the country, farmers across Quebec say they are bracing for impact.

As U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to impose tariffs on some Canadian goods entering the country beginning on Tuesday, farmers across Quebec say they are bracing for impact.

Markus Schnegg, owner of Retoma Farm, says the uncertainty is concerning.

“We knew that when Trump was coming in that there was going to be some concerns but, I mean, not at that level. I think nobody expected that level of uncertainty,” he said.

While Canada’s dairy industry is largely regulated and operates within the country, Schnegg points out that his cattle are slaughtered in the U.S. and the meat is sent back to Canada, potentially doubling the tariffs paid.

Additionally, he says some of his farm machinery and equipment is imported from the U.S., which could add further costs.

“It’s going to hurt everybody,” he said.

Though it is unclear exactly how much money Schnegg might lose in a potential trade war, he says it will have a negative impact on his business.

Charles-Felix Ross, executive director of the Union of agricultural producers (UPA), says the situation is stressful for farmers across Quebec.

“We export a lot of farm products in the U.S., mainly pork, swine, maple syrup, vegetables, grain, beef,” he said.

He says Quebec farmers export roughly $9 billion worth of goods to the U.S. each year.

Schnegg says he is hoping that Canadian consumers will consider supporting local producers as a way to mitigate the impact of the tariffs.

“If our consumers support us and buy Canadian, that’s the best way we can fight the tariffs from the United States,” he said.

In response to the tariff threats, Canada says it is prepared to impose counter-tariffs on some American products up to 25 per cent.