Toronto Announces Ten Key Measures to Counter U.S. Tariffs

Toronto has announced ten key measures to support local businesses and workers in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. Mayor Olivia Chow revealed the plan alongside the city’s economic action team, emphasizing the need for immediate relief.

Key Actions in Toronto’s Response

1. Prioritizing Canadian Suppliers – The city will favor Canadian-owned companies for procurement contracts under $353,000 for goods and services and $8.8 million for construction.
2. Industrial Property Tax Deferral – Industrial property owners affected by tariffs can defer taxes for six months (June 1–Nov. 30, 2025) with no penalties.
3. “Love Local” Campaign – A city-led initiative will encourage residents to buy Canadian-made products.
4. Excluding U.S. Companies from Bidding – American suppliers will be barred from competitive city contracts, affecting an estimated $210 million in business.
5. Fire Truck Procurement Shift – Toronto Fire Services will purchase 17 fire trucks from Canadian manufacturers, ending reliance on U.S. suppliers.
6. Regional Cooperation – Toronto will work with Ontario municipalities to reduce dependence on U.S. imports.
7. Support for Manufacturing – The city will invest in local industrial sectors to strengthen domestic production.
8. Travel and Spending Restrictions – City employees must get approval for U.S. business travel and limit the use of U.S.-based rideshare services.
9. Long-Term Procurement Changes – City departments must transition procurement policies to support Canadian firms within 90 days.
10. Ongoing Legislative Action – The executive committee will review the plan on Wednesday, with a final city council vote next week.

Economic Impact of the Tariffs

Trump has threatened a 25% tariff on Canadian imports, citing issues like immigration, fentanyl, and banking. Canada has responded by imposing tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with an additional $30 billion in retaliatory measures.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has warned that tariffs could eliminate up to 500,000 jobs. Toronto’s industrial sector employs 160,000 workers, making it vulnerable to economic disruption. A Canadian Chamber of Commerce report ranked Toronto 27th out of 41 cities in vulnerability to U.S. tariffs, suggesting moderate risk.

Political and Business Reactions

Mayor Chow criticized the “senseless trade war”, stating that it will increase costs for housing, gas, and food. Toronto has taken a firm stance, signaling that it will not accept economic pressure from the U.S.

Several Ontario cities, including Mississauga, Vaughan, Barrie, and West Lincoln, have removed U.S. flags from city-owned buildings. The Ontario government has also banned American companies from bidding on public contracts.

City Manager Paul Johnson acknowledged that transitioning away from U.S. suppliers will take time but emphasized the goal of strengthening Canada’s economy.

What’s Next?

The executive committee will review the measures this week. If approved, Toronto will begin implementing short-term actions within 30 days. The city’s long-term procurement shift could take months or even years, but officials stress that Toronto is committed to economic independence.

More…

• https://globalnews.ca/news/11084792/toronto-tariff-response
• https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-us-tariff-action-plan-1.7485648
• https://www.cp24.com/politics/toronto-city-hall/2025/03/17/we-will-defend-ourselves-chow-says-as-toronto-gets-set-to-unveil-plan-to-counter-tariffs