Residents of Watertown, N.Y. react to escalating U.S.- Canada trade war

There is uncertainty and concern in northern New York about how the U.S. president’s plans could affect their own backyards. CTV’s Katelyn Wilson reports.

The escalating trade war between the U.S. and Canada isn’t just worrying Canadians. Across the border in Watertown, N.Y., nerves are also setting in.

“I work in a feed mill. Today was the first day we had to go in and we’re adjusting our prices according to the new tariffs and so that’s going to be difficult on everyone,” said American shopper Laura Lamoria.

Lamoria spent the afternoon stocking up for Easter at Target with her daughter Kenzie Augustus, worried they could soon be paying more.

“My husband’s out of state doing another job and so it’s just me here and it’s kind of nerve-wracking taking care of a ten-year-old by myself and wondering about the prices,” Augustus said.

U.S. President Donald Trump imposed a 25 per cent across-the-board tariff on Canadian goods on Tuesday, with a lower 10 per cent levy on Canadian energy. The federal government then imposed a 25 per cent retaliatory tariff on $30 billion worth of American products, with plans to expand the levies to cover another $125 billion on U.S. goods in 21 days.

Major U.S. retailers like Target are already warning that price hikes could begin as early as this week, particularly on perishable goods like fruits and vegetables. Gas prices are also expected to increase.

“We’ve definitely noticed a price increase in a lot of things,” said American shopper Jessica Dixon.

While tariffs on the auto industry have been delayed by a month, concerns remain. Experts warn that new vehicle prices could increase by as much as $12,000 if a 25 per cent tariff is imposed.

Several local dealerships in the town of approximately 25,000 residents say they haven’t received any updates from manufacturers, leaving both businesses and buyers in a state of uncertainty.

“It’s a terrible idea and it’s just going to add inflation and everything’s going to start collapsing pretty quick,” said American shopper, Michael Alden.

While many in Watertown don’t seem to agree with Trump’s tariffs on Canada, the move has been fueling a buy Canadian movement north of the border. Some worry the trade war could put the bond between Canadians and Americans to the test.

“I think it’s stupid, Canadians and Americans have gotten along together for years and years,” said Bernie Lawlee.