Navigating Tariffs: Weathering the Storm of Trade Uncertainty

Tariffs are a polarizing topic in today’s economic landscape. In this episode, host Erin Brown takes on the role of guest alongside Martin Masse, Senior Partner at Norton Rose Fulbright’s Ottawa office, as they join Ted to dive deep into the world of tariffs and trade disputes. Together, they demystify tariffs—explaining how they function and why they matter.

In this conversation, Erin and Martin provide the historical context around Canada-US trade relations and share how imported goods are classified, and how tariffs are calculated and applied to goods. With businesses facing financial and contractual risks in the year ahead, Erin and Martin highlight the importance of reviewing supply agreements, updating legal clauses, and reassessing trade strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs. Beyond individual business concerns, the conversation broadens to the larger economic implications—including the push for trade diversification and the evolving role of inter-provincial trade within Canada. Finally, Erin and Martin share practical steps businesses can take to navigate trade uncertainty and prepare for the future.

This episode is accredited 0.58 substantive hours in Ontario and 0.58 substantive hours in British Columbia.

Guests:

• Martin Masse