Saskatchewan border city reflects on future as Trump’s tariffs approach

The Looming Threat of Tariffs: Understanding the Impact on Border Communities

The looming threat of tariffs has cast a shadow over border communities like Estevan, Sask., as they brace for the potential economic fallout. Scheduled to take effect on March 4, the 25 per cent tariffs on Canada and Mexico, tied to the fentanyl crisis, have left residents and business owners hopeful yet uncertain about the future. While U.S President Donald Trump has sent mixed signals, the reality of the tariffs is now undeniable. Communities along the border are scrambling to assess the impact on their trade and tourism industries, which have long relied on cross-border exchange. Rebecca Foord, Estevan’s community development officer, sums it up simply: “It’s just going to force us all to pivot and change a little bit.”

Community Collaboration: Mapping Out a Proactive Response

In the face of this uncertainty, Estevan and other border towns are banding together to chart a path forward. Foord explains that local leaders have conducted a “full asset map” of southeast Saskatchewan, cataloguing the region’s tourism attractions, events, and local businesses. This exercise has brought stakeholders into the same room, fostering collaboration and a clearer understanding of what the region has to offer. “Having that list is allowing us to be proactive,” Foord says, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to support both tourists and local businesses. While the tariffs loom large, this proactive approach reflects the resilience and resourcefulness of these communities.

Shifting Focus: Exploring Opportunities Beyond the U.S.

While Estevan and its neighbors continue to welcome American tourists and business partners, the tariffs have prompted a shift in focus. Local leaders are now exploring opportunities to attract visitors and trade partners from other provinces and even international markets. Merissa Scarlett, executive director of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce, is a strong proponent of this strategy. “There are opportunities to explore beyond the United States,” she says, pointing to Estevan’s strategic advantages, such as its rail and highway connections, which could facilitate trade with the coasts and even Mexico. Scarlett is also curious to see how the tariffs will affect cross-border shopping, particularly given the weak Canadian dollar, which has historically drawn American visitors to local stores like Walmart.

The Economic Ripple Effect: Concerns for Local Businesses

While the long-term effects of the tariffs remain uncertain, there are already signs of a slowdown in Estevan. Local businesses are reporting fewer customers, and there are growing concerns about potential layoffs in key industries such as oil, gas, and manufacturing. Scarlett acknowledges the nervousness in the community but cautions that it’s too early to predict the full extent of the tariffs’ impact. “I am curious to see if we’re going to see a drop” in cross-border traffic, she says, but for now, the community remains in a wait-and-see mode. Despite the challenges, there is a sense of determination to adapt and find new ways to thrive.

A Glimmer of Hope: Tariffs as a Catalyst for Change

Amid the uncertainty, there is a silver lining. The tariffs have forced Estevan and other border communities to rethink their economic strategies and explore new markets. By leveraging their unique assets, such as their transportation infrastructure and natural resources, these towns may find opportunities they hadn’t considered before. Scarlett’s enthusiasm for diversifying trade and tourism efforts reflects a broader shift in mindset—one that prioritizes resilience and innovation. While the tariffs present a significant challenge, they may also serve as a catalyst for long-term growth and economic diversification.

Conclusion: Navigating the Unknown Together

As the tariffs take effect, Estevan and its neighbors are bracing for impact while remaining hopeful about the future. The community’s proactive response, from asset mapping to exploring new markets, underscores the strength and solidarity of these border towns. While the economic landscape may shift in the coming weeks and months, the people of Estevan are determined to adapt and thrive. As Foord puts it, “It’s just going to force us all to pivot and change a little bit.” And in that pivot, there may be unexpected opportunities for growth and connection.