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Demand for Canadian-made goods gives rise to more direct-to-consumer sales, less focus on U.S. market
CA🏛️ PoliticsCenteryesterday

Demand for Canadian-made goods gives rise to more direct-to-consumer sales, less focus on U.S. market

Canadian food and household goods companies report increased demand for locally made products as consumers prioritize shopping local amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. Companies like aVenco Ltd. and G.E. Barbour Inc. note a shift toward direct-to-consumer sales due to retailer reluctance to adjust shelf space for Canadian products. While some products remain tariff-free, companies express concerns about future trade policies and are diversifying their markets beyond the U.S. aVenco's U.S. sales have declined significantly due to tariffs, while its direct-to-consumer orders have surged. G.E. Barbour Inc. emphasizes the importance of growing its domestic market and international presence to mitigate potential risks.

Canada’s economy grew at an annualized rate of 3.3 per cent in the second quarter of 2025, according to Statistics Canada, marking the strongest quarterly expansion since the third quarter of 2024. This growth was fueled primarily by domestic demand, including increased household spending on investment services, automobiles, and rental payments. However, the gains are under threat from escalating trade tensions with the United States, where new tariffs are beginning to disrupt key sectors of the Canadian economy. The second-quarter growth follows a revision of the first-quarter figure upward to 0.3 per cent from a prior estimate of a slight contraction, preventing a technical recession defined by two consecutive quarters of negative growth. Despite this improvement, the economic recovery appears fragile. An advanced estimate for July showed no growth compared to the previous month, indicating that the momentum from the second quarter may not carry into the latter part of the year. Exports played a crucial role in the second-quarter growth, expanding at their fastest pace in more than three years. Vehicle shipments, in particular, contributed significantly to this export-driven performance. However, the recent imposition of U.S. tariffs poses a serious challenge to this trend. On August 22, the United States implemented 50 per cent tariffs on certain goods previously protected under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). These tariffs, aimed at $28 billion worth of Canadian exports, approximately 5 per cent of total shipments, were introduced shortly after trade negotiations between the two nations collapsed. Economists warn that the impact of these tariffs will be felt most acutely in industries with highly integrated supply chains, such as manufacturing. According to LJ Valencia of Desjardins, the tariffs could discourage production and expansion efforts in both countries. If the tariffs remain in place, they could alter the trajectory of Canada’s medium- to long-term economic growth. The potential for retaliatory measures from Canada adds another layer of complexity, as Ottawa has announced counter-tariffs set to take effect on September 8. These measures are expected to contribute to inflationary pressures and possibly provoke further aggressive actions from the U.S. side. The effects of the trade war extend beyond traditional economic indicators. Tourism, a vital component of the Canadian economy, is also feeling the strain. Businesses reliant on Canadian tourists have reported a noticeable decline in visits from Canada, especially after the recent escalation in trade tensions. Concert promoters and cross-border retailers are adjusting strategies in anticipation of continued disruptions. Data from Statistics Canada indicate that while there was a slight increase in Canadian trips to the U.S. in June, the numbers remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels. Meanwhile, data from Cascade Gateway suggest a downward trend in border crossings, particularly in regions like British Columbia. Amid these challenges, some Canadian businesses are adapting by shifting their focus toward domestic markets and direct-to-consumer sales. Companies producing food and household goods are reporting increased demand for locally made products, prompting some to pivot away from reliance on U.S. markets. A Bowmanville-based parchment paper company, aVenco, noted a dramatic increase in direct-to-consumer orders since the imposition of U.S. tariffs, while its U.S. operations have effectively halted. Similarly, G.E. Barbour Inc., a New Brunswick-based food producer, is emphasizing growth in the domestic market and exploring international opportunities to mitigate the impact of potential future tariffs. Public sentiment regarding the trade war reveals a complex picture. While a majority of Canadians support the government’s stance on maintaining sovereignty, there is a notable generational and income-based divide. Older and more affluent individuals tend to back the government’s decisions more strongly, whereas younger and lower-income groups express greater concern about the economic repercussions. This divergence highlights the broader implications of the trade war, affecting not only economic structures but also societal cohesion and public policy priorities. As the situation unfolds, the resilience of Canada’s economy will depend on how effectively it navigates these multifaceted challenges.

Go to the primary sources (4)

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7 reports

National Post logoNational PostIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 855 days ago
Harley-Davidson becomes unlikely flashpoint in Canada-U.S. trade war

The article discusses how Harley-Davidson has become an unexpected focal point in the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States. The motorcycle manufacturer, which has significant operations in both countries, faces potential impacts from tariffs and trade policies affecting cross-border commerce. This situation highlights the broader economic implications of the trade dispute, particularly for industries with complex supply chains spanning multiple nations. The article suggests that Harley-Davidson’s position in the market could influence negotiations or policy decisions related to trade relations.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the issue neutrally, focusing on the economic impact of trade policies rather than taking a stance on the political aspects of the trade war. It does not exhibit clear bias toward either country or specific political positions.

Why factuality (90): The article accurately discusses Harley-Davidson becoming a flashpoint in the trade war, providing context about the company's operations and the potential impacts of the tariffs. It aligns with the broader consensus found in other articles.

Why objectivity (85): The article remains largely objective in its reporting, focusing on the business implications of the trade war without overtly favoring one side. However, the choice of subject matter may introduce a subtle bias based on the company's prominence in the discussion.

Global News logoGlobal NewsIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 654 days ago
Opinion: It’s easier to support a trade war if you can afford one

New Ipsos research indicates that while a majority of Canadians support the government's firm stance on trade negotiations with the U.S., this support varies significantly based on age and income levels. Older Canadians and those with higher incomes are more likely to back the decision to walk away from trade talks, even if it leads to higher tariffs and job losses. Younger Canadians and those with lower incomes are less supportive, often prioritizing financial stability over taking economic risks. The survey highlights a generational and economic divide in how Canadians view the trade conflict, with younger and lower-income groups being more hesitant to bear the costs of a potential trade war.

Bias read (Center): The article presents survey data showing differing opinions among various demographic groups but does not exhibit overt bias toward any side. It reports findings objectively without editorializing or emphasizing one perspective over another.

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reflects the primary source's findings regarding generational and income-based differences in support for Canada's trade stance. It references specific percentages like 63% supporting standing firm and highlights the generational divide, which matches the primary source's data

Why objectivity (65): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'it’s easier to support a trade war if you can afford one,' which introduces a subjective interpretation. While it presents data, the phrasing leans toward a critical view of younger and lower-income Canadians, suggesting a potential bias against

The Globe and Mail logoThe Globe and MailIndependent🔒CenterFactual 75Objective 70yesterday
Demand for Canadian-made goods gives rise to more direct-to-consumer sales, less focus on U.S. market

Canadian food and household goods companies report increased demand for locally made products as consumers prioritize shopping local amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States. Companies like aVenco Ltd. and G.E. Barbour Inc. note a shift toward direct-to-consumer sales due to retailer reluctance to adjust shelf space for Canadian products. While some products remain tariff-free, companies express concerns about future trade policies and are diversifying their markets beyond the U.S. aVenco's U.S. sales have declined significantly due to tariffs, while its direct-to-consumer orders have surged. G.E. Barbour Inc. emphasizes the importance of growing its domestic market and international presence to mitigate potential risks.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced view of the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on both the challenges faced by companies due to trade policies and the resulting shifts in consumer behavior and business strategies. The framing is

Why factuality (75): The article reports on increased direct-to-consumer sales of Canadian-made products following U.S. tariffs, aligning with the primary source document's mention of Canadians prioritizing local purchases. However, it does not explicitly reference the broader survey data from the primary source, such a

Why objectivity (70): The tone is somewhat promotional, highlighting the positive impact of the trade dispute on Canadian businesses. While it presents facts neutrally, it frames the situation as beneficial for Canadian companies, which could be seen as subtly favoring domestic interests over a balanced perspective.

The Globe and Mail logoThe Globe and MailIndependent🔒CenterFactual 75Objective 656 days ago
U.S. businesses that rely on Canadian tourism brace for tariff impact

U.S. businesses dependent on Canadian tourism are preparing for potential economic impacts due to escalating trade tensions between the two countries. Concert promoters like Dave Wedekindt, who runs Artpark, have seen reduced interest from Canadian audiences for events held in the U.S., particularly after recent trade war developments. Although some data suggest a small increase in Canadian travel to the U.S. in June 2025 compared to previous years, overall trends indicate a decline since the onset of the trade disputes. Businesses are concerned about the long-term effects of the trade war on their revenue, especially as cross-border traffic appears to be decreasing.

Bias read (Center): The article presents information from multiple perspectives, including quotes from a concert promoter and references to statistical data from Statistics Canada and Cascade Gateway. It does not exhibit overtly biased language or one-sided sourcing. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the impact,

Why factuality (75): The article reports on the impact of the trade war on U.S. businesses reliant on Canadian tourism, citing quotes from a concert promoter and industry experts. It references recent trade developments and mentions Statistics Canada data, though the full report is cut off. While the information aligns

Why objectivity (65): The tone leans slightly towards portraying the negative impact of the trade war on Canadian tourism, particularly through the anecdote of the concert promoter. While it includes diverse perspectives, the focus on the potential consequences may introduce some bias, especially in emphasizing the chall

Toronto Star logoToronto StarIndependentConservativeFactual 60Objective 554 days ago
I’m the governor of Maine. This is what I want Canadians to know about Donald Trump’s trade war

The article is a first-person opinion piece by the Governor of Maine discussing concerns related to Donald Trump's trade policies and their potential impact on Canadian interests. The governor highlights issues such as tariffs, trade disputes, and the broader economic implications for North America. While the piece focuses on trade relations between the United States and Canada, it does not provide detailed policy analysis or data-driven arguments. Instead, it serves as a personal perspective advocating for greater awareness of the challenges posed by Trump's approach to international trade.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames concerns about Trump's trade policies through a perspective that emphasizes sovereignty, economic protectionism, and the risks of unilateral actions by the U.S. government. It positions Canada as a vulnerable partner in the global economy, suggesting a more cautious or defensive立场

Why factuality (60): The article lacks direct connection to the primary source document, focusing instead on a different angle related to the auto industry and Donald Trump's policies. It does not provide specific data or statistics from the primary source, nor does it address the broader public opinion trends mentioned

Why objectivity (55): The article takes a clearly partisan stance, representing the perspective of a U.S. state governor criticizing Trump's trade policies. This perspective is not neutral and appears to serve a political agenda rather than presenting a balanced view of the issue.

Toronto Star logoToronto StarIndependentProgressiveFactual 60Objective 555 days ago
The auto trade war Trump started is slowly destroying the industry he promised to save

The article discusses how President Donald Trump's policies, particularly his approach to international trade agreements, have negatively impacted the automotive industry in North America. It highlights concerns over tariffs, trade wars, and the resulting challenges faced by automakers, suggesting that these policies have undermined the industry rather than supporting it as Trump had claimed. The piece critiques the long-term effects of these trade strategies on manufacturing jobs and economic stability within the sector.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Trump's trade policies as harmful to the automotive industry, using critical language such as 'destroying' and 'slowly destroying,' which implies a negative judgment. While it acknowledges Trump's promises, it emphasizes the adverse outcomes, aligning more closely with a left-wing

Why factuality (60): Similar to the previous article, this piece does not reference the primary source document directly and instead focuses on the automotive sector and Trump's impact. It lacks specific data or quotes from the primary source, making its factual alignment with the main event limited. It discusses the ef

Why objectivity (55): The article adopts a strongly negative tone towards Trump's trade policies and the resulting impact on the auto industry. This perspective is not neutral and appears to be aligned with a particular political viewpoint, lacking balance in its reporting.

National Post logoNational PostIndependentConservativeFactual 60Objective 456 days ago
David Clement: Counter-tariffs will hurt Canadians more than they'll hurt Trump

The article by David Clement argues that Canada's counter-tariffs in response to U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump would primarily harm Canadian businesses and consumers rather than significantly impacting Trump's administration. The piece suggests that while the U.S. tariffs imposed economic pressure on Canada, retaliatory measures could lead to higher costs for Canadian goods and reduced trade opportunities. Clement emphasizes the potential negative consequences for Canadian industries and highlights the limited effectiveness of such retaliation against a U.S. president who has already faced significant domestic challenges.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the issue through a perspective that favors minimizing the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada while emphasizing the risks of Canadian countermeasures. It implies that Canadian retaliation may be less effective and more damaging than the initial U.S. actions, which aligns with a pro-

Why factuality (60): This article appears to be a column by David Clement rather than a news report. It makes a clear argument about counter-tariffs impacting Canadians more than Trump, but lacks specific sourcing or contextual information about the current event. The content seems more opinionated than factual, and it

Why objectivity (45): The piece is clearly opinionated, presenting a biased viewpoint that suggests counter-tariffs will negatively affect Canadians. The language is more polemic than neutral, and it does not attempt to present alternative perspectives or balance the discussion.

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