ARA shares its stance on tariffs and their potential impact on the automotive industry.
The USA’s threat of tariffs enacted upon Canada is now a reality. Although not directly imposed on the automotive service industry, we will not be exempt from the effects of the tariffs.
Our industry, primarily comprised of small businesses and already facing financial difficulty, will have to pass on increased costs to consumers. That is, those that can pass on increased costs. Those who’s terms of service are dictated by crown corporations and government agencies could face exponential challenges.
Premier David Eby has issued the following statements in response to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump:
“The federal government has committed that the revenues from counter tariffs announced this morning will be redistributed to businesses and individuals to provide support. We’ll make sure that that happens. As a province, we’ll fill in the blanks wherever there is an area that isn’t being addressed by Ottawa.”
“Effective immediately, BC Liquor Stores will be pulling all red-state liquor products off the shelf and will not order any more. Here at home, the government, including Crown corporations and health authorities, will be buying Canadian first, then non-U.S. products.”
The ARA supports government and its actions to combat the economic threat on British Columbian’s and Canada as a whole. As such, it is ceasing all travel to the USA and prioritizing purchasing Canadian.
While we acknowledge government must counteract these tariffs, we will ensure government understands the need to support our industry with fair compensation balanced with the reality of tariffs.
Our industry is driven by entrepreneurs. People who see challenge as opportunity and find solutions to anything thrown in their way. Tariffs and their effects are just another opportunity. The ARA will not slow down, to the contrary, we will double down. We will create an environment where BC automotive professionals can invest, innovate, and thrive, so they keep BC moving and drive a vibrant BC economy.
Adrian Scovell
President & CEO
Automotive Retailers Association