The uncertainty surrounding escalating tariffs between Canada and the United States has created significant challenges for B. C. businesses, leading to a worrying exodus of customers. Brenco, a metal fabrication company based in Delta, B. C., is experiencing firsthand the impact of this trade friction. Vanessa Heim, president and CEO of Brenco, described sleepless nights and increasing costs due to the unpredictable tariff landscape.
The company, which fabricates metal for industries like forestry, mining, and data centres, is finding it difficult to plan for the future. "We don't know whether we should be investing in equipment or battening down the hatches," Heim stated. This uncertainty is compounded by fluctuating material costs and shortages of essential materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and mild steel. Suppliers are reportedly leaving products at docks due to the prohibitive 50 per cent tariff for bringing them into the country.
The situation has become so dire for some clients that they are moving their operations. Heim shared that one of Brenco's largest customers, after 40 years in Canada, shut down its Canadian operation last December, laying off approximately 60 local employees and relocating to Texas. "It's a real shame that we're seeing family businesses close their doors because they cannot compete," Heim lamented. The broader economic impact is being felt across British Columbia, with provincial business groups calling for government support programs to mitigate the fallout from the trade war. B. C. is particularly exposed, with a higher percentage of its exports affected by the U. S. tariffs compared to other provinces.
