Hyper-Local Buying

Canadians urged to buy local amid U.S. tariff uncertainty

Feb 3, 2025 | 2:48 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – With so much uncertainty regarding the United State’s possible tariffs, what can Canadians do to soften the possible blow? Local experts suggest that consumers need to engage in ultra-localized commerce to navigate their impacts.

UNBC School of Business instructor Charles Scott says that Trump’s potential tariffs will allow Canadians to forge new connections in their business practices.

“ We have gotten used to a lifestyle that gives us things for cheap based on getting them from anywhere in the world. However, as the world has become more vulnerable, the US has stepped back from being the global policeman, and we’ve had more wars and more trade tensions. We have reverted towards a more regional world.”

Charles Scott

Senior Instructor, UNBC School of Business

President Donald Trump anticipates that Americans could feel “some pain” from the potential trade war triggered by his proposed tariffs. According to Scott, Canada will need to open its provincial borders to adapt.

The Prince George Chamber of Commerce encourages its members to unite and support one another during what Trump refers to as an economic trade correction.

“ We’ve been through this. We’ve seen this movie before. We know what we need to do. We can’t ignore the real costs. People are going to lose their jobs. This is going to affect our local economy, our regional economy, and our provincial and national economies. There will be repercussions.”

Neil Godbout

Executive Director, Prince George Chamber of Commerce

According to Godbout, while buying locally may be more expensive, it also presents an opportunity to bolster the local economy.

President Trump has paused his proposed tariffs for at least 30 days while he negotiates with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the president of Mexico.

Email: Dave.Branco@pattisonmedia.com

TikTok: @DaveBrancoVJ