Tariffs and international trade

Helping your business navigate tariff uncertainty

Learn how tariffs may impact your business and discover the different solutions available to help you adapt.

Last updated: August 25, 2026

Understanding the potential impact of tariffs

Tariffs may influence pricing, working capital, client demand, and supply chains. Understanding how they may affect your business can help you plan and make informed decisions.

Evaluate business needs

Identify the products affected by tariffs and confirm the applicable tariff classification with a qualified professional, such as a customs broker.

Assess financial impact

Review potential impacts on sales, margins, pricing, cash flow, accounts receivable, and financing needs.

Consider your options

Review contracts, international commercial terms (Incoterms), alternative markets, supplier options, currency considerations, and available support programs.


Government support programs available to you

  • FEDERAL

Canada-U.S. federal support portals

A central hub for tariffs, financing, workforce support, customs guidance, the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), and export resources. 

  • FEDERAL

BDC tariff support

Financing solutions, advisory services, and resources designed to help businesses adapt to trade uncertainty. 

  • FEDERAL

EDC and export support

Resources and solutions for trade credit insurance, working capital, currency risk management, and international growth.

  • QUEBEC

FORCE and PAUPME

FORCE supports eligible manufacturers affected by tariffs, while PAUPME provides assistance to eligible SMEs and suppliers impacted by tariffs. Available in French only.

  • FEDERAL

Trade Commissioner Service

Resources to support market diversification, export growth, and international expansion.

  • FEDERAL/REGIONAL

Regional Tariff Response Initiative

Support for tariff-affected SMEs to enhance productivity, diversify markets, and strengthen supply chain resilience through regional development agencies.


How National Bank can support your business

Our specialists are here to help you evaluate your financial needs and explore solutions that align with your business priorities.

 

Liquidity and financing

Explore solutions to support working capital, cash flow, and financing needs.

 

Foreign exchange

Evaluate currency exposure and identify strategies to manage risk.

 

International trade

Explore payment-risk tools, letters of credit and receivables solutions.

 

Market diversification

Explore opportunities to diversify your supplier base and support your business growth in new international markets.

 

Discover our solutions to help grow your business


Practical resources to help you navigate tariff changes

  • BUSINESS HELP CENTRE

What is a tariff?

Learn about tariffs, how they may affect your business, and the resources at your disposal.

  • INTERNATIONAL GROWTH

Explore international markets

Browse articles and tools to help your business expand into new markets, manage currency risk, and grow internationally.


Frequently asked questions

As a client, what should I do first? 

Start by identifying affected products, confirming tariff classifications, and assessing potential financial implications. Clients can then discuss their financing, liquidity, foreign exchange, and international trade needs with their National Bank account manager to explore appropriate solutions.

 

Should I review my contracts?

Yes. You should review contract terms related to tariff responsibility, Incoterms, pricing adjustments, renegotiation rights, and termination provisions. Depending on the circumstances, seeking legal advice may be advisable. 

 

Can National Bank confirm eligibility for a government program? 

No. Eligibility must be confirmed directly with the applicable government authority. National Bank specialists can help identify relevant programs and resources for your business to explore.

 

Does CUSMA compliance automatically exempt a product from tariffs? 

Not necessarily. Tariff treatment depends on the specific measure and product classification. Maintain accurate proof of origin documentation and consult a customs specialist to confirm eligibility

 

Let's discuss your business needs

 

Contact your National Bank account manager to assess your situation and explore solutions tailored to your financing, liquidity, and growth objectives. 

 

For more information, visit the Banking solutions for business page.

 

IMPORTANT: Tariff treatment varies based on the product, its classification, and any applicable exclusions. Clients should consult with customs and legal professionals to determine how tariffs may apply to their specific situation.