The intensifying trade war with the United States is deeply concerning, the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce says in a news release. The Sault has been hard hit by U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff campaign, in particular the 50 per cent duty imposed on steel, sparking huge layoffs at Algoma Steel. Trump threatened new 50 per cent tariffs Monday on a number of exports previously protected under the trade agreement between Canada, Mexico and the U.S. “At a time when businesses and workers need certainty, these proposed measures will create additional instability for companies that depend on integrated Canada-U.S. supply chains and cross-border trade,” the Sault chamber said. Understand the impact “Few communities understand the impact of tariffs more than Sault Ste. Marie,” chamber president La-Na Fragomeni said in the release. “Our local economy has already felt the effects of ongoing trade disputes, particularly in manufacturing, steel, forestry, transportation, and other export-dependent sectors. These new measures threaten jobs, investment and the competitiveness of businesses on both sides of the border.” The chamber is calling for “measured, strategic responses that protect Canadian businesses and workers while diversifying Canada’s export markets, and continuing efforts to restore a stable and predictable trading relationship with our largest trading partner.” “A strong North American economy depends on open, rules-based trade that benefits businesses, workers, and consumers in both Canada and the United States,” the release said. “The Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce will continue to work with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and all levels of government to advocate for policies that strengthen business competitiveness, protect local jobs, and support the long-term prosperity of our region.”
