Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Minister Evan Solomon visited the Roustan Hockey factory to discuss the ongoing tariff issues imposed on hockey stick manufacturing.
W. Graeme Roustan, owner of The Hockey News, released a statement following Monday’s visit with Solomon to elaborate on the concerns that have arisen from these tariffs.
“The current trade environment is creating significant challenges for manufacturers across Canada,” Roustan wrote. “We want to take this opportunity to thank our customers on both sides of the border for their continued trust and support.
“Despite these challenges, we remain deeply committed to our employees, our customers, and our manufacturing operations here in Canada.”
Minister Evan Solomon (left) and W. Graeme Roustan (Photo Credit: The Hockey News)
In July, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that he will be imposing an additional 50 percent in tariffs on a wide range of imports from Canada, including ice hockey equipment. These tariffs took effect on Aug. 22.
The Canadian government announced in a response on Aug. 25 that it will match the new U.S. tariffs dollar for dollar, with additional Canadian tariffs on U.S. goods. In addition, the government is also introducing a $7.5-billion package of relief funds to support Canadian workers and businesses that are impacted by these ongoing issues.
These measures are co-led by Solomon, among other financial ministers across the country.
“We welcome the national tariff relief measures being announced and Canada’s promise to help protect businesses and Canadian jobs,” Roustan wrote. “We will need it to ensure world-leading, Canadian-owned companies like ours continue to invest, grow, and manufacture in Canada for years to come.”