This report presents findings from CFIB's survey, Canadian SMEs and the Proposed U.S. 50% Tariffs, launched in late July 2026. The survey examines the potential impact of proposed 50% U.S. tariffs on Canadian small businesses. The findings are gathered directly from 1,833 business owners across Canada.
Key survey findings:
The proposed U.S. tariffs are widely known and a major concern for exporters
• 93% of businesses exporting to the U.S. indicate they are aware of the proposed tariff
• 90% of businesses exporting to the U.S. are concerned about the potential impact of the proposed tariff
Revenue risks are significant for businesses exposed to the proposed tariffs
• 40% of surveyed exporters report affected products
• 77% of exporters with affected products expect revenue losses if the tariffs are implemented, and 35% foresee revenues falling by at least half
Competitiveness concerns are raising questions about reliance on the U.S. market
• 78% of exporters believe a 50% U.S. tariff would make their products uncompetitive in the U.S. market
• 75% of exporters say it would prompt efforts to reduce dependence on the U.S. market
• 78% of exporters remain in wait-and-see mode as trade policy uncertainty persists
Survey methodology
Title: Canadian SMEs and the Proposed U.S. 50% Tariffs
Status: Final results
Active Dates: July 28 - August 6, 2026.
Respondent Demographics: Responses from 1,833 CFIB members who are owners of Canadian independent businesses across all sectors and regions.
Margin of Error: +/- 2.3%, 19 times out of 20, for a probability sample of the same size.
