On March 26, 2025, Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC), in collaboration with ecosystem partners across the country, hosted a virtual event that brought together industry experts, business leaders and women entrepreneurs to discuss uncertainty around proposed U.S. tariffs.
The expert panel shared insights and experiences, providing context, exploring opportunities in international trade and sharing strategies for women entrepreneurs to thrive in the global market.
Women entrepreneurs from across Canada were invited to submit questions in advance, and to share comments and questions during the event. They also provided real time feedback to key questions.
“What is your biggest concern about the tariff situation?” yielded the following responses.
Via Mentimeter
Impact on Women Entrepreneurs
Businesses across Canada are experiencing tremendous uncertainty resulting from U.S.-imposed and threatened tariffs. Increased costs and revenue disruptions are affecting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Women-owned businesses are disproportionately affected because of smaller financial buffers and limited resources. While many women-led businesses do not operate in the manufacturing sector where tariffs are directly applied, they are indirectly impacted through ripple effects in supply chains and market instability.
KEY TAKEAWAY: With the US becoming a less appealing market, now is the time to explore new markets in other regions, including Mexico, Europe, Asia and Africa.
RELATED QUESTIONS:
> While tariffs don’t directly affect our industry, how will the anticipated trickledown impact the economy?
The uncertainty around tariffs has the potential to impact a variety of factors. Tariffs could lead to higher prices for consumers resulting in reduced demand for Canadian products. The inability to sell products in the same volume, may result in scale back which in turn could lead to job losses. When raw materials or components come from outside the country, the time and cost of acquiring those inputs may increase, resulting in supply chain disruptions.
> Do US tariffs apply to Canadian original paintings, print reproductions, art supplies and digital content?
The industries hit hardest by tariffs include steel, aluminum, energy, and agriculture, all of which contribute significantly to the Canadian economy. SMEs are particularly vulnerable, as they often lack the capacity to absorb cost increases or negotiate favorable trade terms.
Research shows that 26% of potential entrepreneurs are “missing” from the economy, meaning individuals who could start businesses are not doing so. Alarmingly, 78% of these missing entrepreneurs are women. Closing this gender gap could lead to a 6% increase in Canada’s GDP, unlocking between $150–$180 billion in economic growth.
KEY TAKEAWAY: By closing the gender gap in entrepreneurship, women can drive growth in key industries impacted by tariffs, strengthen SMEs, and unlock up to $180 billion in economic potential for Canada.
Strategies for Businesses to Respond to Tariffs
In response to these trade challenges, businesses are considering several strategies to mitigate risks and maintain stability. Some are seeking government support programs to offset financial losses, while others are adjusting their pricing strategies to compensate for higher costs.
A growing number of businesses are also proactively renegotiating contracts with U.S. clients to ensure pricing stability. For those looking beyond the U.S., there is an increased focus on diversifying export markets to Mexico, Asia, Europe, and South America.
Meanwhile, companies are also exploring strengthening domestic sales and supply chains, leveraging a growing consumer preference for locally sourced products—85% of Canadians now prefer to “Buy Canadian.”
Via Mentimeter
KEY TAKEAWAY: Women entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to expand into new global markets, strengthen domestic sales, and leverage growing demand for Canadian-made products, creating more resilient and competitive businesses.
RELATED QUESTIONS:
> What do I need to know about CUSMA compliance?
Despite U.S. tariffs imposed on Canada under the United States (U.S.) International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Canadian exporters can still benefit from duty‑free access to the U.S., if their goods are Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) compliant.
Being CUSMA compliant means that goods meet the CUSMA rules of origin and qualify for preferential tariff treatment. To ensure your product meets the CUSMA rules of origin and complete a certification of origin: • Determine your product’s HS code. • Determine if your good meets the rules of origin (product-specific rules of origin are written based on HS codes). • Complete a certification of origin (there is no requirement for this information to be provided on a specific form. It may be provided on an invoice or any other document.) • Consider using a template certificate to avoid errors. • Provide the certification of origin to your U.S. importer so they can claim the preferential tariff treatment. • Request an advance ruling for certainty about how the good will be treated upon entry into the U.S. • Contact a certified customs broker for additional support: • For a directory of Customs Brokers in the U.S: Permitted Customs Brokers Listing | U.S. Customs and Border Protection • For a directory of Customs Brokers in Canada: Customs Broker Search | CSCB National Office For goods imported into the U.S., the final decision on the classification and tariff treatment of a good rests with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Available Government Support Programs
To support Canadian businesses facing tariff-related disruptions, several government programs have been introduced or expanded. The BDC Pivot to Grow Loan offers financial assistance for businesses looking to adapt or expand in new directions. The Farm Credit Canada Trade Disruption Support Program provides financial relief specifically for the agriculture and food sectors.
Additionally, the EI Work-Sharing Program allows businesses to temporarily reduce employees’ hours while enabling them to access Employment Insurance benefits, helping both employers and workers weather economic uncertainty. The CanExport Program offers funding for businesses exploring new markets outside the US, encouraging export diversification.
Meanwhile, EDC’s $5 billion Trade Impact Program is designed to help businesses expand globally and manage trade-related risks.
KEY TAKEAWAY: Government programs like the BDC Pivot to Grow Loan, CanExport, and EDC’s Trade Impact Program offer women entrepreneurs valuable financial support and resources to adapt, diversify into new markets, and expand globally.
Canada’s Trade Agreements as an Advantage
Despite challenges posed by U.S. tariffs, Canada remains a global leader in trade agreements, offering businesses access to a broad network of international markets. Canada is the only G7 country with trade agreements covering all other G7 nations, creating a strong foundation for global trade.
Key agreements include:
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which enhances :access to Asia-Pacific markets,
Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which facilitates trade with European nations,
Canada-UK Trade Continuity Agreement (CUKTCA), ensuring continued business with post-Brexit Britain.
KEY TAKEAWAY: With Canada’s strong network of trade agreements, including access to markets in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the UK, women entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to expand globally and tap into new, lucrative markets beyond the U.S.
> Several questions related to the de minimas trade exemption were posed, including whether it would be eliminated and the anticipated timeline
The de minimas trade exemption allows for shipments valued at less than $800 to enter the U.S. duty free.
On April 2, 2025, an executive order was signed by the U.S. President to shut down the loophole for goods from China and Hong Kong, effective May 2, 2025.
De minimas treatment for low-value imports from the rest of the world will end at a date still to be determined.
Optimism & Moving Forward
Despite current trade uncertainties, the panelists emphasized that economic disruptions often create opportunities for growth and innovation. Many businesses are already adapting their strategies to be more resilient, whether by exploring new international markets, strengthening local supply chains, or leveraging government resources.
Via Mentimeter
The rising preference for Canadian-made products (85%) presents a unique opportunity for businesses to tap into domestic demand and develop new competitive advantages. Additionally, Canada’s reputation as a fair, reliable, and ethical trading partner continues to attract international buyers.
Panelists encouraged women entrepreneurs to set ambitious goals, embrace change, and leverage available resources to turn these challenges into long-term success.
KEY TAKEAWAY: Despite trade uncertainties, there are significant opportunities for women entrepreneurs to innovate, expand into new international markets, strengthen local supply chains, and capitalize on the growing demand for Canadian-made products, positioning their businesses for long-term success.
Conclusion
With a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, access to financial support, and a growing demand for Canadian products, businesses—especially those led by women—are well-positioned to thrive despite current trade disruptions.
Prior to the Community Forum, registrants had the opportunity to submit questions for the panelists. As time didn’t allow all of the questions to be answered during the event, we have answered many of the questions below:
> Several questions related to the de minimas trade exemption were posed, including whether it would be eliminated and the anticipated timeline
The de minimas trade exemption allows for shipments valued at less than $800 to enter the U.S. duty free.
On April 2, 2025, an executive order was signed by the U.S. President to shut down the loophole for goods from China and Hong Kong, effective May 2, 2025.
De minimas treatment for low-value imports from the rest of the world will end at a date still to be determined.
> Does the Jay Treaty offer any protection from tariffs for First Nations exporting between Canada and the USA?
Signed by the U.S. and Great Britain, the Jay Treaty included a provision for free passage by First Nations Peoples and their personal goods across what is now the Canada-U.S. border. Source: Government of Canada
> What do you do when part of your product has a tariff and another doesn’t?
Determining the right tariff classification for your product involves understanding its origin, consulting the HS system and Canadian Tariff Schedule, considering applicable trade agreements, and potentially seeking expert advice. – AI assisted
> What are the import regulations for clothes coming from Nepal and India?
Importing clothing from Nepal and India into Canada requires adherence to several regulations, including duty and tax payments, and proper documentation. While there are no specific permits needed for textiles or apparel, understanding the tariff classifications and applicable rates is crucial. Additionally, you need to maintain records of your imports for six years. – AI Assisted
> Can U.S. and Canadian companies trademark together?
Yes, a U.S. and a Canadian company can trademark a name together, but they must each register the trademark in their respective countries. Trademark rights are territorial, meaning a registration in one country does not automatically protect the trademark in another. Source Canadian Intellectual Property Office
> How are the current tariff challenges affecting the talent landscape in Canada, particularly in industries that rely heavily on imports or exports?
The answer to this question is constantly changing, but we found a few related articles:
> Are businesses struggling to attract and retain skilled workers in the shifting economic environment?
Interestingly, there has been quite a bit of talk about Canada experiencing a “brain gain”, as researchers, medical professionals and others consider a move from the U.S. to Canada.
Each issue highlights upcoming events, engaging articles, and best practices to help you broaden your expertise and enhance your collaboration with female entrepreneurs.
