Kitchener launches Support Local campaign in response to U.S. tariffs
Hannah Kavanagh | CBC News | Posted: March 18, 2025 10:00 AM | Last Updated: March 18
Tariffs cause a 'needless and senseless fight,' Mayor Berry Vrbanovic says
Kitchener's mayor stood with council members Monday to announce the city will include a more involved approach to supporting local businesses in the wake of fluctuating tariffs from the U.S.
Berry Vrbanovic released the city's new Support Local campaign, during a news conference at city hall, officially launching a plan for what he called a "needless and senseless fight."
"This initiative aims to bolster our local economy, ensure Kitchener remains vibrant and strong, and remind us all that our local businesses are truly the heart of our community," Vrbanovic said.
Since March 4, most Canadian goods have been hit with a 25 per cent tariff. Waterloo region and the rest of Canada have since been reeling from fluctuating threats and chaos as business owners and residents have no idea what to expect next in terms of economic drawbacks.
Soon after, Kitchener created a tariff and trade task force to assess the effects of the tariffs locally and advocate for trade barrier removal between provinces to supplement imports and stimulate the economy.
At the beginning of March, Vrbanovic joined Ontario Premier Doug Ford and other city mayors in Washington, D.C., to fight tariff measures.
Now, the Kitchener task force is implementing five main actions to support the local economy:
- Amending Kitchener's procurement bylaw.
- Communicating with distributors and contractors for Canadian alternatives to supply.
- Prioritizing smaller-dollar item supply purchases.
- Import substitution resources for local businesses and outreach to trade exposed companies.
- The launch of the campaign itself, Support Local, in partnership with local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce and the Kitchener Market.
In a news release, Coun. Scott Davey, the finance chair, noted Ontario's procurement policies are already in good standing, with 98 per cent of goods and services being sourced in-province.
Vrbanovic also announced Kitchener would be working with other cities within Waterloo region to keep communication and partnership clear while "dialoguing with federal and provincial partners" to keep the region as steady as possible through a "fluid situation."
"The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has identified this region as one of the most impacted communities in the country," Vrbanovic said.
"Kitchener will work hard and tirelessly to make sure we protect our economy, our businesses and our residents."