Tariffs impact London’s economy

London businesses and consumers feel the affects of the ongoing tariff uncertainty as companies like the Falcon Shop at Fanshawe College, deal with changing costs and demands.

The latest measures have added uncertainty for businesses such as the Falcon Shop. Tracy Veitch, supplies buyer, mentioned why she is worried for the upcoming months.

“Just the uncertainty. It just feels like that’s changing all the time, and you don’t know what to expect. But you just kinda have to go with your plan and adjust as needed,” she said.

Tracy Veitch, supplies buyer, photo: (Torey Joseph Legarrie)

She hasn’t seen a big affect yet.

“So far I don’t think there’s been a big affect. There are lots of ways to get around it for when I’m buying around here. So whenever I can find a way around it, that’s what we do. Also, the vendors are being very careful about that too,” she said.

The changes she’s had to make due to the uncertainty were mentioned.

“Buying maybe more than you might need right now, just to get ahead of that. Also looking for companies that are producing in Canada,” she said.

U.S President Donald Trump has made a series of tariffs on Canadian goods during the ongoing trade dispute between America and Canada, with the latest being 50 per cent tariffs with around $20 billion worth of Canadian goods which was effective Aug, 22. 2026. In response, The Government of Canada imposed counter tariffs of 15 per cent, 25 per cent, or 50 per cent on some goods from the U.S as of Sept, 8, 2026.

Kapil Lakhotia, London Economic Developtment president and CEO, photo: (London Economic Development Corportation)

Earlier this year, Kapil Lakhotia, President and (CEO) Chief Executive Officer at the London Economic Development Corporation did a story with CTV London discussing tariff impacts, job protection.

“We’ve been successful in attracting new plants despite all this economic chaos. This year, we’ve had several expansions that focus om other parts of the world as well,” he said.

Fanshawe student, Mirella Wanverley said that with the costs rising, she has some concerns.

“Cause I pay my own bills. So with rent, food, with student things, materials, and that stuff it’s a little too much. If it’s raised too-too much, it’s going to be hard,” she said.

Mirella Wanverley, construction engineering technician, year 1, photo: (Torey Joseph Legarrie)