Kelowna: The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce is taking a strong stance against the newly announced February 1st tariffs by the Trump administration, which threaten to significantly impact local businesses and the broader community. As the voice of business in Kelowna, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that the concerns of its members are heard and addressed at all levels of government.

On Friday, the federal government in Ottawa said Canada will bring a “forceful but reasonable” retaliation to any tariffs imposed by the U.S. as Canada braces for the economic fallout of a trade war.

Many businesses in Kelowna rely on cross-border trade, whether through exporting goods and services to the U.S. or importing products essential for manufacturing and resale. These proposed tariffs introduce new challenges, increasing costs, disrupting supply chains, and potentially leading to job losses in the region.

“The potential tariffs pose a serious risk to the economic stability of our business community,” said Maryse Harvey, President of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. “We are working diligently with provincial and federal policymakers to advocate on behalf of our members, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns are represented.”

The Chamber has been actively engaging with key stakeholders to discuss potential solutions and strategies to mitigate the impact of these trade barriers. By collaborating with business leaders, industry partners, and government officials, the Chamber aims to protect the interests of local enterprises and support economic resilience during this uncertain period.

“The strength of Kelowna’s economy depends on fair and open trade,” Harvey continued. “Our members need clarity and stability, and we are committed to advocating for policies that safeguard their ability to compete and grow in a global marketplace.”

The Kelowna Chamber of Commerce encourages local businesses affected by the proposed tariffs to share their concerns and insights. Business owners and operators can contact the Chamber to provide input, receive updates, and participate in advocacy efforts.