Border state businesses reliant on Canada, supply chains voice tariff concerns

Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vt., recently hosted a roundtable discussion with small businesses in Vermont, where attendees expressed concerns about the impact of the Trump administration’s tariff actions on their operations and the state’s tourism industry.

Welch, who co-sponsored a bipartisan bill to repeal the tariffs, described them as a “self-inflicted wound” that would raise prices for businesses, farmers, and working families across rural America. The roundtable, held in Stowe, near the Quebec border, highlighted the uncertainty felt by businesses facing increased costs due to the tariffs.

One attendee, Jen Kimmich of Alchemist Brewery, shared how the tariffs were affecting her business, which relies on global supply chains for its operations. Despite raising prices by 5% and absorbing a 10% hit, Kimmich expressed concern about the future impact of the tariffs on her brewery’s operations.

Other businesses at the roundtable, including Christa Bowdish of the Old Stagecoach Inn, also voiced worries about the decline in tourism from Canada and the negative effects on their businesses. Bowdish noted a decrease in Canadian visitors and shared a letter from a Canadian tourist who canceled their trip due to political rhetoric toward Canada.

Power Play Sports owner Caleb Magoon highlighted the challenges posed by supply chain issues, as his stores work with vendors from around the globe. Representatives from ski and snowsports businesses expressed uncertainty about how the tariffs would affect their upcoming season, with many not opening until November.

The roundtable discussion shed light on the widespread impact of the tariffs on Vermont’s small businesses and tourism industry. Welch and the business owners called for a reevaluation of the tariffs to prevent further economic damage.

In response to the concerns raised at the roundtable, Fox News Digital reached out to the White House for comment. The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the tariffs underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to support small businesses and protect Vermont’s economy.

As businesses in Vermont navigate the challenges posed by the tariffs, it is clear that collaborative efforts between lawmakers, businesses, and the administration are crucial to finding solutions that benefit all stakeholders.