Canada US Tariff Updates
Tracking what’s changing for Western Nova Scotia businesses. Updated frequently.
Effective September 8, 2026, Canada implemented counter-tariffs of 15, 25 and 50 percent on approximately $27.6 billion worth of U.S. goods in direct response to U.S. Section 338 and Section 232 tariffs.
Key Sectors Impacted: Steel and aluminum, dairy, appliances, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper, furniture, apparel, and electronics.
Fish and seafood products were removed from the final applied list. Goods in transit to Canada before the effective time are exempt.
Complete list of U.S. products subject to counter tariffs
Updates:
September 8, 2026
Canada Strong Hub:
The Government of Canada’s Canada Strong hub brings together programs and resources in one place for
- Workers looking to plan their next step
- Businesses and industries navigating tariff pressures
- Regional tariff supports delivered through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies
- Skilled trades opportunities
- Community infrastructure investment through the Build Communities Strong Fund
If you or your business have been affected by U.S. tariffs, this is a good starting point to see what’s available.
September 1, 2026
Regional Tariff Response Initiative:
The Government of Canada is helping Canadian businesses adapt to global trade disruptions and build greater resilience. Through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI), ACOA is supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Atlantic Canada impacted by tariffs.
Regional Tariff Responce Initiative in Atlantic Canada
August 27, 2026
Workforce Tariff Response Fund:
Sreated in 2025, the $13.8 million Workforce Tariff Response Fund is still available, jointly funded by Canada and Nova Scotia.
- Supports workers and employers directly or indirectly affected by tariffs, including in steel, softwood lumber, fisheries and seafood, agri-food, manufacturing, and automotive
- Runs from fiscal year 2025–26 through 2027–28
Support is accessible in communities across the province, including here in Western Nova Scotia
Employers apply through LaMPSS (Labour Market Programs Support System), with an Itemized Budget Breakdown attached.
Full details, guidelines, and how to apply
Business Support:
Contact Western REN BusinessNow
Provincial Business Navigator Hotline: 1-800-670-4357