Survey of Electro-Federation Canada members finds 60% back retaliatory tariffs
Categories: Canada
February 28, 2025 – Electro-Federation Canada—a national association representing companies that manufacture, distribute, sell, and maintain a range of electrical products in Canada—surveyed its members to better understand the potential impact of the proposed US tariffs on Canadian goods and business operations.
Respondents expressed concern over increased costs, supply chain challenges, and diminished competitiveness of Canadian electrical exports. Many anticipate significant price adjustments and supplier realignments, with some even considering relocating capacity to the U.S.
Approximately 33% of EFC’s membership (85 members) responded, noting that tariffs on Canadian goods would have a significant impact on costs, supply chains, and overall business operations.
The proposed tariffs will impact the sale of Canadian electrical products to the U.S. and make it significantly more difficult for Canadian exports to compete with domestic US manufacturers not subject to a 25% tariff, says the association.
Expected consequences include price increases and supplier and market realignment.
60% of those surveyed supported retaliatory tariffs.
Members answering the survey included:
- 57% – Manufacturer
- 25% – Manufacturer representative
- 18% – Distributor
30% of respondents suggested they will feel only a Nominal impact, while 66% answered the impact would be Significant to Very Severe.
Should the proposed tariffs move forward, EFC members are considering the following actions:
- 62% – Increase prices
- 33% – Supplier realignment
- 29% – No change
- 25% – Hiring freeze
- 18% – Market realignment
- 15% – Postpone or cancel Canadian investments
- 12% – Layoffs
- 8% – Relocate capacity to the U.S.
Alongside various other industry organizations, EFC says it continues to call on the Canadian government to fight for free trade in the Electrical industry.
