Statement From Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy On Escalating U.S. Tariffs

Today’s remarks from Premier Doug Ford underscore the seriousness of the escalating trade dispute with the United States and the need for all levels of government to stand together in defence of Canadian workers and businesses.

The introduction of 50 per cent U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods creates significant uncertainty for businesses, disrupts supply chains and puts Canadian jobs at risk.

Whitby stands with our provincial and federal partners in supporting a united Team Canada response -- and we recognize that municipalities have an important role to play.

In early 2025, I established the Mayor’s Tariff Task Force, which brings together Town of Whitby staff and local business leaders to collaborate on Whitby-focused solutions. The task force continues to meet regularly, including earlier this month.  

Over the past 18 months, the Town of Whitby has amended procurement bylaws to prioritize Canadian goods and services and introduced restrictions preventing U.S. businesses from bidding on municipal contracts.

Town staff are working closely with local businesses to connect them with resources, promote their products and services, and help them respond to changing economic conditions.

I also regularly visit Whitby businesses for one-on-one conversations so I can hear directly about the challenges they are facing, and advocate for the support they need.

Whitby is fortunate to have exceptional partners in the Whitby Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Whitby Business Improvement Area. Their leadership will be increasingly important in the months ahead.

There will undoubtedly be challenges as we navigate this period of economic uncertainty, but I am confident in the resilience of Whitby’s business community.

I strongly encourage Whitby residents to support local and Canadian businesses whenever possible -- every purchase matters.