The Peru Gazette

                “I am hearing from several North Country businesses, local officials, and consumers who are extremely nervous about the impending tariffs on Canada. The decision to move forward with the broad 25% tariff on Canadian goods will be highly detrimental to consumers and manufacturers in the North Country. Our area transportation equipment companies will be unable to pass along higher costs due to multi-year fixed-price contracts, and non-Canadian manufacturers in the area that need to source raw materials from Canada could see their supply costs increase by $16 million annually. Energy costs will increase as the North Country relies on Canada for 100% of its natural gas, huge quantities of Canadian hydro power help supply our grid, and most of the region’s heating oil and gas come from the Port of Montreal. Construction material prices will also increase as a large quantity of our region’s asphalt, cement, lumber and other building materials come from Canada. Warehouses where Canadian goods are sent for U.S. distribution will see diminished activity, which could impact job availability. Additionally, consumers can expect the cost of food, vehicles, and homes to rise. Canada has responded with 25% tariffs on several U.S. goods, especially agricultural products, which will severely impact our farmers. Canada has been a wonderful partner in helping build the North Country economy that has brought new businesses, jobs, and goods to our region for many years, and these tariffs will stifle that collaboration. Our region has always welcomed our neighbors to the North with open arms, and I fear that these tariffs will negatively impact our friendly relationship. I hope that this decision is short-lived, and I will work with local and federal partners to encourage a reversal of these tariffs as soon as possible.”