Sweeping tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump since
his return to the White House have caused various levels of
uncertainty across the globe. In Canada, resulting trade tensions
with the United States have greatly impacted the Canadian
construction industry.
Tariffs imposed by the United States, along with retaliatory
measures by Canada, have raised costs for essential materials such
as steel, aluminum and wood products, affecting procurement
strategies, contract drafting and risk management throughout the
industry.
This article provides an overview of how the tariff process has
unfolded, the various approaches taken by governments, owners,
contractors and subcontractors in reaction to the tariffs, and
contractual tools available to address tariff-related concerns.
