There is growing concern among area businesses over the ongoing trade war with the United States.
According to the Chambre de commerce et d’industrie de Beauharnois, Valleyfield, Haut-Saint-Laurent (CCIBVHSL), the uncertainty resulting from the trade dispute is complicating investment decisions and hiring practices. “Businesses need predictability to invest, hire, or plan, and that is not the situation we are in right now,” said CCIBVHSL director Éliane Galipeau.
While some companies have been directly affected by U.S. tariff measures, the uncertainty is now the main concern. Companies that export are particularly vulnerable, especially those in the manufacturing, aerospace, welding, metal fabrication, and food sectors.
“For now, the affected businesses in the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent are mainly those in the metal fabrication sector. Companies do not like to be named because they fear losing customers,” said Galipeau, while explaining that many companies are also reluctant to share information about their situation.
The manufacturing sector is among the most vulnerable, particularly those that are integrated into North American supply chains. Despite this, Galipeau said she does not anticipate any drastic changes in the short term.
“I don’t think there will be any closures for now, but there could be a slowdown,” she warned, suggesting businesses may be forced to “reinvent themselves” to adapt to the current situation.
Galipeau said she hopes that businesses facing difficulties will reach out. “Often, they go through it all on their own. So, I don’t have the information I need to speak up for our businesses, and it’s hard for me to advocate for them at higher levels,” she explained.
She confirmed the CCIBVHSL is working with the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec to ensure the region’s businesses’ concerns are heard. They have requested help from the government to reduce the tax burden and increase its financial support to allow businesses to remain competitive.
“They are already facing significant external pressure; we need to avoid adding to it,” Galipeau argued, while encouraging area consumers to prioritize buying local.