Lincoln, ON — August 24, 2026 — The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is closely monitoring the latest developments in Canada-U.S. trade and the impact of newly enacted U.S. tariffs on Canadian businesses.
Following the breakdown of recent Canada-U.S. trade talks, new U.S. tariffs came into effect on August 22, 2026. Under Section 338 of the U.S. Tariff Act, the United States has announced tariffs of up to 50 per cent on a broad range of Canadian goods. These measures add further uncertainty for businesses that export to the United States or are connected to affected supply chains.
The Lincoln Chamber recognizes that the impacts will vary across industries and businesses. We are working with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Ontario Chamber of Commerce to ensure the experiences and concerns of local businesses are reflected in ongoing advocacy efforts.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce Wants to Hear From You
If your business is being affected by tariffs or ongoing trade uncertainty, we encourage you to share your experience.
Your feedback will help the Chamber network understand:
- Which businesses, industries and products will be particularly impacted
- The expected impact on sales, costs, contracts, production or investment
- How many jobs could be impacted or put at risk
- Any other measurable impacts on businesses, workers, families or their communities
Ontario Expands Financial Support
The Government of Ontario announced today that it is expanding eligibility for the Protect Ontario Financing Program (POFP) to support businesses affected by the latest U.S. tariffs.
The program provides up to $1 billion in loans to qualifying Ontario-based businesses facing tariff-related working capital challenges, including costs such as:
- Payroll
- Lease payments
- Utilities
- Other operational expenses
The expanded eligibility is intended to support businesses whose exports are affected by the new Section 338 tariffs, as well as businesses continuing to face existing Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, copper and automotive products.
Ontario’s broader $30-billion tariff relief and support plan also includes programs designed to help businesses diversify markets, strengthen competitiveness and support communities affected by trade disruption.
Businesses can learn more about the Protect Ontario Financing Program and eligible exports through the Government of Ontario’s website.
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Emilia Amaro
Executive Director
Lincoln Chamber of Commerce
info@lincolnchamber.ca
(905) 563-5044