1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The planned tariffs on goods imported from Canada threaten to disrupt long-standing economic relationships and harm many businesses across shared border communities. As a small business owner, I am deeply concerned about the consequences these tariffs could have on my operations and the broader regional economy that has flourished through cross-border trade and integration for decades. The interdependence between American and Canadian industries is profound, exemplified by the flow of raw materials, finished goods, and services across the border that forms the backbone of various sectors. Implementing sweeping tariffs risks severing these vital economic ties, impeding the efficient movement of products, and driving up costs that will ultimately be passed on to consumers. I urge you to reconsider this protectionist approach which could undermine the competitiveness of many small enterprises like mine that have thrived by embracing open trade with our northern neighbor. Maintaining a cooperative trading relationship with Canada is crucial for the continued prosperity of border communities and businesses across your state.