Tracking tariff developments and resources for BC local government finance professionals. Last updated March 11, 2026.
U.S. tariffs continue to reshape the economic landscape for local governments in British Columbia. Higher tariffs on materials like steel, aluminum, lumber, and automobiles are driving up infrastructure and procurement costs, while trade restrictions are creating uncertainty across key industries and putting pressure on local tax revenues and budgets.
This page tracks key developments and provides resources to help local government finance professionals navigate the ongoing trade environment.
Last updated: March 11, 2026
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Key Developments
March 6, 2026 — Canada-U.S. trade talks resumed for the first time since October 2025, with Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc meeting U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington. The talks are expected to fold into CUSMA renegotiations, with a formal review due July 1, 2026. (CBC News)
March 5, 2026 — The governments of Canada and British Columbia announced a $70.4 million partnership to support tariff-impacted workers through WorkBC, including retraining, upskilling, and employment assistance for workers in affected industries and communities. (Canada.ca)
February 24, 2026 — Following the Supreme Court ruling, President Trump issued a new executive order imposing a 10% tariff on goods from all countries under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, with exemptions for certain products. (Tax Foundation)
February 20, 2026 — The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. This struck down the original tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China imposed under IEEPA authority, as well as the "reciprocal" tariffs on other countries. (Holland & Knight)
February 17, 2026 — B.C. Budget 2026 was tabled amid ongoing tariff uncertainty. The budget includes $50 million for forestry to navigate tariff challenges, a new $400 million Strategic Investments Special Account, and measures to support affected industries. (B.C. Budget 2026)
February 12, 2026 — The U.S. House of Representatives voted 219–211 to end tariffs on Canadian goods, with several Republicans crossing party lines. The bill still requires Senate approval and faces a likely presidential veto. (Al Jazeera)
August 1, 2025 — A 35% tariff on Canadian goods took effect after being announced by President Trump in July 2025. (Tax Foundation)
April 16, 2025 — UBCM Executive responds to the U.S.-Canada trade war. (UBCM)
March 4, 2025 — B.C. launches its tariff response hub with resources for businesses and workers. (Province of B.C.)
February 2025 — KPMG webinar on urgent tariff implications for businesses in B.C. (GFOABC)
Resources
U.S. Tariff Overview: Questions, Findings and Considerations (GFOABC)
Canada's Response to U.S. Tariffs (Government of Canada)
B.C.'s Response to Unjustified U.S. Tariffs (Province of B.C.)
U.S.–Canada Tariffs: Timeline of Key Dates and Documents (Blakes)
Canada Tariff Finder — Find applicable tariffs on products
Tariff Tracker: 2026 Trump Tariffs & Trade War by the Numbers (Tax Foundation)
What to Watch
CUSMA Review (July 1, 2026): The formal review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement is expected to begin, with tariff treatment and rules of origin as central issues.
Section 122 Tariffs: The 10% tariff imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 is effective for 150 days from February 24, 2026. Further action under other trade authorities is expected.
Steel & Aluminum Tariffs: Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum remain in effect separately from the IEEPA ruling. Canada's temporary remission on certain U.S. steel and aluminum inputs extends to June 30, 2026.