The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce has issued a strong response to the latest U.S. tariff announcement, warning of significant economic repercussions for businesses on both sides of the border.

Alex Mitchell, CEO of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce, addressed the impact of the new tariffs, stating:

“The United States is a critical trading partner for many of Abbotsford’s businesses. Today’s news is a clear economic blow – these tariffs will harm Canadian and American companies by upending supply chains, making everything more expensive, causing job losses, and adding more red tape without any benefit on either side.”

As a border community with a deeply integrated manufacturing sector and Canada’s leading agricultural hub, Abbotsford’s economy is closely tied to U.S. trade. Local businesses rely on seamless cross-border operations to sustain growth, employment, and competitiveness in global markets.

A Call for Government Action

Mitchell emphasized the urgent need for decisive and coordinated action from the Canadian government to shield businesses from the damaging effects of the tariffs. The Chamber is advocating for:

  • Collaborative solutions to key trade barriers, including border security and the ongoing challenges of fentanyl-related disruptions.
  • Economic development initiatives that promote innovation, streamline approvals and permitting, and advance major infrastructure projects.
  • Reduction of regulatory burdens to help businesses remain competitive.
  • Diversification of trade markets to reduce reliance on any single trading partner and strengthen Canada’s economic resilience.

With British Columbia already facing economic headwinds, the Chamber is pushing for a bold growth strategy that encourages investment, enhances productivity, and removes interprovincial trade barriers.

Keeping Trade Moving Forward

Mitchell underscored the importance of maintaining strong economic ties between Canada and the United States, stating, “We’ve grown our respective economies in part through working together – now is the time to keep trade moving and do whatever it takes to ensure our Canadian businesses can succeed.”

The Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce represents over 750 businesses in the region and continues to advocate for policies that foster economic growth, innovation, and cross-border collaboration.

For more updates and insights on how this issue unfolds, stay connected with the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce.

The full statement can be found here: https://www.abbotsfordchamber.com/2025/02/01/abbotsford-chamber-of-commerce-responds-to-president-trumps-tariffs/

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance. She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Alex Mitchell #Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce #Supply Chains #Job Losses #manufacturing #Agricultural Capital #Food Exports #Tariffs #Diversifying Markets #Trading Partners

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