The Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce is expressing strong concern, following the breakdown of trade negotiations between Canada and the United States over the weekend.
On Saturday, the U.S. imposed its new 50 per cent tariffs on roughly $28 billion of worth of Canadian goods after trade talks were suspended.
Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada will match the tariffs, which are set to take effect on September 8.
In a statement, the local chamber said as one of Southwestern Ontario’s most vital industrial hubs and border communities, Sarnia-Lambton relies heavily on predictable, seamless cross-border commerce with neighbouring Michigan and broader American markets.
"We are deeply disappointed a deal couldn't be reached to secure stable, long-term trade terms and avoid these escalating tariffs," said Interim CEO Steve Crozier. "Our region's economy is uniquely integrated with our cross-border partners in the United States. Unilateral tariffs and trade friction create significant uncertainty for local employers, threaten critical supply chains, and place unnecessary burdens on local businesses and workers on both sides of the border."
The chamber emphasized that local enterprises can't afford prolonged trade disputes, especially during a period of economic recovery and retooling.
The statement said the chamber will monitor the situation moving forward.
"In the days ahead, the chamber will be consulting with our federal and provincial representatives to ensure that area businesses and industries are not left out or forgotten as our respective governments work through next steps," added Crozier.
The statement said that any local members or business leaders with concerns regarding cross-border shipments or potential operational impacts are asked to reach out to the chamber directly.
