Tariff Guidance for B.C. Businesses

Canada and the United States (U.S.) have close economic ties and together form one of the most enduring economic relationships globally. Canada is the largest customer for U.S. goods and services exports, buying more U.S. goods than China, Japan, France and Germany combined. The U.S. is the top destination for British Columbia (B.C.) origin exports (2024) with about 52% of B.C.’s commodity exports shipped there.

The Government of B.C. is focused on:

• Growing a strong economy
• Diversifying trade partners
• Protecting core services
• Defending workers and businesses against U.S. imposed tariffs

The Government of B.C. and Government of Canada are working closely to address the tariffs by the U.S. on Canadian products.

British Columbia’s Response

The Government of B.C. is committed to working with B.C. businesses to unlock the province’s potential and create the conditions for economic growth that makes British Columbia stronger. B.C.’s three-point approach:

• Respond by appealing to American decision-makers and remaining united and ready to participate in nationally coordinated retaliation, if required.
• Strengthen our economy through actions like fast-tracking major projects to deliver good-paying jobs across the province.
• Diversify by finding new markets for B.C. goods and reducing trade barriers within Canada so we’re less reliant on the U.S.

Learn more about B.C. and Canada’s response.

Tariff Exemptions: Rules of Origin

Qualifying businesses can get tariff exemptions or reductions by meeting the rules of origin and completing a certificate of origin under some trade agreements including the Canada-United States and Mexico Agreement, Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The Government of B.C. has created a tariff guidance for businesses page to help B.C. businesses:

• Determine their eligibility
• Complete a certificate of origin
• Learn about additional business support resources

B.C. Response to U.S. Tariffs: Information Sessions

Learn how the Government of B.C. is responding to the current moment by attending one of our event series throughout the next few months. Find a session near you on the Trade and Invest BC events page.

Additional Resources

• The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting
• Export Navigator exists to set you up with the resources and support you need to export.
• Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) provides small and medium-sized enterprises with resources to support international trade opportunities.
• The Government of Canada has announced a comprehensive response plan. For information on Canada’s response visit Canada’s response to U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.

Inquiries Regarding U.S. Trade Tariff Impacts

B.C. businesses can submit questions or concerns related to the U.S. trade tariffs to the Government of British Columbia. Queries will be directed to the appropriate experts for timely and informed responses.

In the current global environment, trade and investment diversification is more important than ever. B.C.’s Trade Diversification Strategy uses B.C.’s competitive advantages to expand export and investment opportunities in targeted new markets, expand in key existing ones and increase the number and diversity of B.C.’s exporting businesses.

Trade and Invest BC supports B.C. companies, creating pathways for growth and global impact. Learn more about our global offices or contact us for details.

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