Town launches internal tariff task force

By  ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Town of Caledon is taking measures in response to U.S. tariffs. 

On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, and 10 per cent tariffs on Canadian energy, were implemented. 

In a March 4 news release, Town of Caledon communications staff said Caledon is reaffirming its commitment to local businesses in light of the tariffs. 

The release said Caledon has launched an “Internal Tariff Task Force” to “monitor and address local business impacts through outreach, support programs, and advocacy.”

Mayor Annette Groves said the tariffs will make things challenging for Caledon businesses. 

“I want to assure you that we remain committed to working with our local businesses to ensure they have the supports they need,” said Groves. “As a first step, I urge all our local businesses to connect with staff and use the tariff resource hub. I also encourage residents and businesses to buy local and choose Canadian-made products, where possible, to help bolster our local economy.”

The tariff resource hub referred to by Groves is available on the Town of Caledon's website at the following link: caledonbusiness.ca/tariffs.

The Town of Caledon will be looking to align its tariff response with that of the Provincial and Federal governments. 

Caledon's Chief Administrative Officer Nathan Hyde said the Town's establishment of a tariff task force is an important step in addressing challenges posed by the tariffs. 

“The recent tariffs imposed by the United States present a serious threat to the local economy and our businesses in Caledon. We understand the strain that these economic pressures place on our community, and we are fully committed to supporting our local businesses during this challenging time,” said Hyde. “By ensuring a coordinated response across departments, we can implement supportive programs and advocate for the resilience of our economy.”