Durham’s local leaders are addressing the recent 25 per cent tariff imposed by the United States on Canadian goods. Both Mayor Shaun Collier of Ajax and Mayor Elizabeth Roy of Whitby have released statements outlining the anticipated economic impact and their plans to support local businesses.
Mayor Collier’s statement
Mayor Collier expressed deep concern over the tariffs, emphasizing their effect on businesses in Ajax and the broader community. “Today, we face a significant challenge with the enactment of a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods entering the United States,” he stated.
He highlighted the potential for economic disruption, noting that over 75 businesses in Ajax, employing 4,000 people, primarily export to the United States. “This decision will hurt our economy, but also our community, which is home to more than 75 businesses with 4,000 employees that primarily export to the United States, and countless others who work in affected industries both in and outside of Ajax,” he said.
Beyond job losses, he stressed that these tariffs would affect families and livelihoods across the region, “the impacts of job losses and lower revenues are not just numbers on a page; they will negatively affect the livelihoods of our friends, neighbours, and family members,” he added.
In response, Ajax is working with Invest Durham, Invest Ontario, and other partners to support affected businesses, “the Town of Ajax, along with our Business Supports & Engagement Team, is working with our partners, including Invest Durham and Invest Ontario, to support local businesses affected by these tariffs,” Collier explained.
He also urged residents to take action by prioritizing Canadian-made products, “now, more than ever, it is crucial to stand in solidarity and buy Canadian products from local businesses,” he emphasized. To reinforce this, the Town of Ajax has made changes to its procurement policies and will continue exploring additional ways to support local businesses, “we are committed to being a resource to help businesses and all affected residents navigate this difficult period,” Collier concluded.
Mayor Roy’s statement
Whitby’s Mayor Elizabeth Roy also condemned the tariffs, emphasizing their potential impact on key industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and agriculture. “I am deeply concerned by President Donald Trump’s confirmation that the United States will impose a 25 per cent tariff on Canadian goods. These tariffs pose a direct threat to our local economy, impacting key sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, and agriculture,” Roy stated.
“The Town of Whitby is working closely with the Region of Durham, municipalities across the province, and industry leaders to assess the local impact of tariffs and advocate for our community,” she continued.
To engage local businesses, she announced that the town’s economic development team has been in consultation with industry leaders and will hold a Mayor’s Roundtable on Tariffs on March 5.
On the advocacy front, Whitby has been monitoring the tariff situation since Trump’s election win in November. Mayor Roy said she joined Ontario’s Big City Mayors Tariff Working Group, while Durham’s eight mayors and the regional chair issued a joint statement supporting federal and provincial countermeasures, including a 25 per cent import tariff on $155 billion in U.S. goods. “We are supporting the Downtown Whitby BIA’s Shop Local and Win campaign throughout March, and I continue to spotlight local businesses in my monthly newsletter and on social media,” she added.
To help businesses diversify their markets, “the Durham Economic Development Partnership is developing a trade diversification strategy, including a trade directory showcasing Durham-based manufacturers,” Roy explained. Additionally, “Invest Durham has launched a Tariff Response landing page with information for businesses and consumers, including access to the Canada Tariff Finder, which helps companies navigate import and export tariffs in various markets,” she noted.
Mayor Roy urged residents to stand by local businesses during this period of economic uncertainty, “we are committed to protecting local businesses, advocating for fair trade policies, and ensuring our economy remains strong. I urge Whitby residents to stand with us and support local businesses and products whenever possible,” she concluded.
Looking Ahead
Both mayors emphasized the importance of community support and proactive local policies in mitigating the economic damage caused by the tariffs. As businesses adjust to these new trade barriers, municipalities in Durham Region are mobilizing resources, engaging in advocacy, and encouraging residents to shop locally and support Canadian-made products.
With roundtables, policy adjustments, and trade diversification efforts underway, local leaders remain committed to ensuring that businesses and workers can weather this economic challenge.
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