In early 2025, following the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods by the U.S., Francine Piché of Burlington, Ont., decided to prioritize buying Canadian or non-U.S. products over American ones whenever possible. She made changes such as switching personal care brands, discontinuing her Amazon membership, and scrapping plans for a New York trip to avoid supporting American products. However, with the recent introduction of new 50 per cent U.S. tariffs and failed trade negotiations, Piché has resolved to no longer make exceptions.
She and her family intend to cancel their remaining American streaming subscriptions and she plans to forgo some of her favorite gluten-free U.S.-made foods, even if alternatives are not readily available. Piché stated that her determination has increased, emphasizing it as her way to resist.
The resurgence of the Buy Canadian movement has been triggered by renewed trade tensions, prompting consumers to shift even more towards Canadian products. The movement has seen a surge in traffic on platforms like the Made in Canada Facebook group, with over 1.4 million members sharing information on Canadian products. Administrator Jayne Little noted a significant increase in group views and a rise in membership requests, indicating a growing interest in sourcing Canadian alternatives.
Ryan Checora, a web developer, reported a spike in downloads of his barcode-scanning app, O SCANada, which provides product origin information. The app, initially launched in response to heightened tariffs, has gained renewed attention as more Canadians seek transparency in their purchases.
While some consumers prioritize price over product origin, others like Lauren Hung in Vancouver express concerns about the cost of locally sourced goods. Despite this, Canadian brands such as Peace by Chocolate have experienced increased support. Tareq Hadhad, the company’s CEO, noted a surge in website traffic and emphasized the importance of backing Canadian businesses during trade uncertainties.
The Buy Canadian movement has gained traction, with consumers showing a stronger preference for Canadian products. This shift in consumer behavior has been instrumental in supporting local businesses amidst ongoing trade disputes.
