Indigenous businesses in N.S. adapt to tariff uncertainties
Two Indigenous business operators in Nova Scotia are facing challenges due to the implications of U.S. tariffs. Jason Hartung, the owner of Turtle Island Market, an e-commerce business that sells digital art, canvas paintings, clothing, and other items featuring Indigenous art, has had to adjust his business practices in response to the uncertainty surrounding Canada-U.S. trade relations.
Hartung has stopped sourcing products from American suppliers to avoid potential issues stemming from President Donald Trump’s tariff threats. He expressed the need to stay informed about global affairs and world economics as a small business owner, which was not something he anticipated when starting his business. Previously, he prided himself on using products from across North America, including Indigenous groups in the United States, reflected in the name Turtle Island.
In light of the trade war triggered by Trump’s tariff threats, Hartung now supports the Buy Canadian movement but faces challenges in finding Canadian suppliers who do not source products from the United States. He emphasized the importance of small business owners supporting each other during these trying times.
Another Indigenous business owner, Leonard Paul, who owns an art marketing company called Foxtrail Editions, has also felt the impact of the tariffs. He highlighted the increasing difficulty for artists to make a living and expressed concern about the strain placed on the entire Canadian population by the tariffs.
As an artist himself, Paul has had to make adjustments to navigate the financial challenges exacerbated by the tariffs. Despite the obstacles, he remains committed to selling his art through his website and local events to continue supporting his livelihood.
Both Hartung and Paul’s stories shed light on the struggles faced by Indigenous business operators in Nova Scotia amidst the trade uncertainties caused by U.S. tariffs. Their resilience and determination to adapt to changing circumstances highlight the importance of community support and local market focus in times of economic turmoil.
