Navigating a U.S.-Canada trade war:
What landscape horticultural trades need to know
This is a rapidly evolving situation. Landscape Ontario will continue to provide updates on this page to help members stay informed and prepared.The potential U.S.-Canada trade war has created uncertainty for the landscape horticultural industry in Canada. U.S. Tariffs could significantly impact the sector, with businesses facing higher costs and supply chain disruptions.
Latest update: April 14, 2025
With the ongoing shifts in U.S. trade policy — including recent pauses, revisions and heightened tariffs on certain goods — we understand there’s been some uncertainty about what this all means for Canadian exporters. We want to provide clarity on the current situation and its implications for our sector.
U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports
On April 9, 2025, the U.S. administration announced a 90-day pause on certain tariffs for most trading partners. However, China was excluded from this pause. The U.S. has imposed a cumulative tariff of 145% on most Chinese imports. This includes a baseline 10% universal tariff, additional reciprocal tariffs and a 20% levy related to fentanyl concerns. While certain electronics like smartphones and laptops were temporarily exempted, they may soon face separate sector-specific tariffs under national security investigations.
China's retaliatory tariffs
In response, China has raised its tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%, escalating the ongoing trade tensions between the two nations.
Impact on Canadian exports
No new tariffs on Canadian exports at this time.
Canadian products entering the U.S. market under CUSMA/USMCA rules of origin remain tariff-free. This is consistent with the original March 6 order and all subsequent amendments.
What this means for you
If your product qualifies under CUSMA/USMCA and you have a valid Certificate of Origin, your exports to the U.S. should not be subject to tariffs.
Note: With Chinese-origin goods now facing a 145% tariff, members should assess their supply chains for exposure — particularly if you're exporting products that include Chinese-made components or packaging that does not qualify under CUSMA.
Confirming your compliance
To ensure your product is CUSMA/USMCA compliant, work with your customs broker and ensure you have an up-to-date Certificate of Origin.
Need help confirming your compliance or understanding what applies to your business?
Here are some helpful resources to guide you:
- Exporting to the U.S.? Review U.S. Customs (CBP) requirements under USMCA
- Importing goods into Canada? Understand your obligations under CBSA rules
- Not sure if your goods are tariff-free under USMCA? Use Canada’s Tariff Finder tool to check product eligibility
We continue to monitor policy developments and will keep you informed as new information becomes available.
Update: April 3, 2025
Recording available of Tariff Town Hall discussion
Hosted by Landscape Ontario executive director Joe Salemi, the session includes perspectives from Canadian Nursery Landscape Association (CNLA) executive director Victor Santacruz and Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) executive vice-president of advocacy Corinne Pohlmann.
Update: April 1, 2025
Strategies to Address the Impact of Tariffs in Construction in Canada
This article from Kennaley Construction Law added to Resources section.
Update: March 20, 2025
Landscape Ontario to host Tariff Town Hall on April 2
Landscape Ontario’s Tariff Town Hall will provide green industry members details about the current situation, impacts and potential mitigation strategies. Hear challenges, concerns and perspectives from various organization and submit your questions when registering online. Virtual or in person attendance options available.
Full details on the event page or register online.
Update: March 7, 2025
U.S. tariff implementation delayed until April 2 for some goods
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on March 6, 2025, that the planned 25% tariff on some Canadian goods has been delayed until April 2, granting a temporary reprieve to Canadian exports that are compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The guidelines stipulate that a product qualifies for CUSMA preference if it originates or is manufactured entirely from materials sourced from the U.S., Mexico, or Canada.
Learn more about CUSMA and compliance
Resources for businesses (newest on top)
- Navigating Tariffs and Trade Shifts – A government of Canada web page with information on navigating tariffs and trade shifts that also provides the latest on the Canada-U.S. engagement, plus links to available support.
- Strategies to Address the Impact of Tariffs in Construction in Canada – from Kennaley Construction Law
- Business Development Bank of Canada – Supports from BDC
- Export Development Canada – Supports from Export Development Canada
- Royal Bank of Canada Tariff Insights
- International trade and finance policy - Request for remission on tariffs on certain goods
Update: Feb. 3, 2025
Tariffs delayed for 30 days
Following discussions between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump on February 4, the planned tariffs have been delayed for 30 days while both governments negotiate a potential economic agreement.What was originally planned?
- The U.S. planned to impose 25% tariffs on Canadian imports, except for energy, which would have faced a 10% tariff.
- Canada announced counter-tariffs on $30 billion in American goods, with plans to escalate to $155 billion later this month.
Why were the tariffs delayed?
Canada agreed to increase cooperation with the U.S. on organized crime and fentanyl trafficking.What this means for landscape businesses
- The delay provides temporary relief, but tariffs could still take effect after 30 days if an agreement isn’t reached.
- Businesses should continue preparing for possible cost increases and supply chain disruptions.
Industry-specific impacts
Higher equipment and supply costs
- Many landscaping tools, machinery, and supplies are imported from the U.S.
- Tariffs could increase prices, squeezing profit margins and potentially raising service costs.
Plant material availability and pricing
- If tariffs apply to plant imports from the U.S., availability may become limited, and prices will likely rise.
The importance of U.S. exports for Canadian growers
- Canada exports a diverse range of live plants with soil to the U.S., including turf sod, potted plants, and bedding plants.
- Most other countries cannot sell plants with soil to the U.S. due to phytosanitary restrictions, making Canada’s exports uniquely valuable.
- The U.S. accounts for 99.6% of Canadian plant exports and 45.3% of plant imports, by value.
- The total value of Canadian ornamental exports (including Christmas trees) increased by 13.1% from 2022 to $1.073 billion in 2023.
- The 2023 total value of ornamental exports was 39.4% higher than the average of the previous four years.
Economic slowdown and reduced demand
- A trade war could slow the economy, leading to:
- Less consumer spending on landscaping services
- Construction delays affecting landscape installation projects
Challenges for Canadian exporters
- Some members exporting plants to the U.S. could face a 25% tariff, affecting pricing and sales.
- Even with exchange rate advantages, long-term losses may not be sustainable.
What Landscape Ontario is doing to help
Landscape Ontario is actively working to protect and support members affected by these trade developments.1. Government relations and advocacy
- Monitoring tariff policies by working with OMAFRA (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs) and AAFC (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada).
- Advocating for the federal government to reinvest tariff revenues into support programs for affected small businesses.
2. Business support and strategic planning
- Advising members to secure essential plant materials and supplies in advance to mitigate potential shortages.
- Providing regular updates and industry guidance to help businesses adapt.
What members can do now
Mitigate supply chain risk
- Evaluate alternative suppliers to reduce reliance on U.S. imports. Building multiple supply sources strengthens our negotiating power.
- Source materials domestically or from international partners where possible.
- Stock up on key materials: If tariffs are implemented, prices may increase quickly.
- Stay informed: Trade conditions can change rapidly—be prepared for possible shifts.
Consider pricing strategies
- Re-evaluate pricing structures to protect profit margins.
- Add value to products and services rather than just increasing prices should the need arise.
- Offer bundled services or premium options to offset increased costs should that occur.
Strengthen local partnerships
- Collaborate with local businesses and suppliers to create a stronger industry network.
- Share resources, best practices, and strategies within the community.
- Strengthen B2B relationships to sustain the industry.
Stay informed and engaged
- Monitor tariff updates and trade policies closely.
- Engage with industry associations, government groups and local chambers of commerce.
- Stay involved in advocacy efforts to ensure our concerns are represented.
Focus on customer communication
- Be transparent about potential price or product availability changes should the tariffs be put into place.
- Strengthen client relationships by educating customers on the industry challenges.
- Proactively offer solutions, such as early booking discounts or alternative service options.
FAQ: Key questions for members
Q: When will the tariffs take effect?
A: The tariffs were originally scheduled for February 4, but were delayed for 30 days following negotiations between Canada and the U.S. On March 6, the tariffs on goods compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement were delayed until April 4 by Donald Trump.
Q: How will a U.S.-Canada trade war affect my business?
A: You may experience higher costs for equipment, plants, and materials, potential slowdowns in consumer demand and export challenges if tariffs resume.
Q: What should I do to prepare?
A:
- Secure supplies early to minimize risks.
- Diversify suppliers to reduce reliance on U.S. imports.
- Follow Landscape Ontario updates for new information.