Since early 2025, when the U.S. imposed tariffs on Canada, Francine Piché has been prioritizing Canadian products over American ones. The Burlington, Ont., resident follows a strict household rule of choosing Canadian products first, non-U.S. products second, and avoiding American products whenever possible.
Piché has taken significant steps to avoid supporting American goods, such as switching personal care brands, canceling her Amazon membership, and forgoing a trip to New York. However, with the recent implementation of new 50 percent U.S. tariffs after failed trade talks, Piché is firm in her decision to make no more exceptions.
She and her family intend to cancel their remaining American streaming service subscriptions and bid farewell to some gluten-free U.S.-made foods, despite the challenge of finding alternatives. Piché expressed her determination to resist by stating, “That’s the only way that I can fight back.”
The Buy Canadian movement, which gained momentum over a year ago as consumers distanced themselves from American products, has seen a resurgence due to the latest trade tensions. Many consumers are now actively shifting towards Canadian products.
The Made in Canada Facebook group has experienced a significant increase in views, with over 1.4 million members sharing information about Canadian-made products and alternatives to American ones. Jayne Little, the group administrator, noted a surge in interest and engagement compared to discussions in 2025.
The demand for apps and platforms providing information on Canadian products has also spiked. Ryan Checora, a web developer, reported a surge in downloads for his barcode scanning app, O SCANada, emphasizing the growing interest in product origins among Canadians.
While some consumers prioritize price over product origin, others like Lauren Hung are willing to pay more to support Canadian businesses amidst escalating trade tensions. The price-conscious approach varies across different product categories, with discretionary items being more susceptible to shifts in consumer behavior.
Despite challenges, Canadian brands such as Peace by Chocolate have witnessed increased support from consumers. The Buy Canadian movement has led to a surge in web traffic for businesses like Peace by Chocolate, highlighting the impact of consumer choices on local businesses.
Tareq Hadhad, the founder of Peace by Chocolate, emphasized the importance of Canadian support amid the trade war, ceasing shipments to the U.S. to focus on local backing. The Buy Canadian movement continues to resonate with consumers, reflecting a shift towards prioritizing Canadian products and businesses.