Canadian SMB News Roundup: Tariffs, Tax Relief, and New Export Tools
By Robert Marshall
August 26, 2025
Canadian small business owners are facing a mix of challenges and opportunities this week. On one hand, global trade pressures and tariffs are tightening margins. On the other, new tools and policy changes are creating real chances to grow. The picture is not simple, but there are practical moves every business can make right now.
eBay Opens Doors for Canadian Exporters
eBay just rolled out a program called eBay International Shipping. The idea is simple: make it easier and safer for Canadian sellers to reach international customers. The platform takes on much of the logistics and offers better protection on cross-border sales. For SMBs looking to tap into U.S. or overseas markets, this could mean lower costs and less hassle. It is another path for Canadian entrepreneurs to grow beyond the local market.
Expanding internationally is attractive, but it is not without risk. Success abroad depends heavily on how strong your foundation is at home. Businesses with reliable Canadian suppliers and trusted partners will be in a better position to step outward with confidence.
CFIB Rings the Alarm on Tariff Pressure
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) reported this week that nearly one in five small businesses may be forced to close within six months if conditions do not improve. Rising tariffs on goods like steel and aluminum, along with the removal of the De Minimis exemption, are hitting smaller operators hard. These are real costs that eat directly into already tight margins.
At the same time, CFIB is pushing for relief through lower small business corporate tax rates. If the government listens, it could offset some of the damage and buy business owners more breathing room. Until then, owners will need to keep a close eye on expenses and focus on efficiency wherever possible.
Counter-Tariff Cuts Could Help Importers
Another headline worth noting is the federal government’s decision to lift some counter-tariffs on U.S. products. For businesses that depend on imported inputs, this is welcome news. Lower barriers mean cheaper supplies and a little more room to manage cash flow. It is not a full fix, but it could ease pressure for industries that have been hit hardest.
What Small Businesses Can Do Right Now
Strengthen local connections: Building a reliable network of Canadian partners creates stability. With strong supply and vendor relationships at home, it becomes easier to branch out to international markets without worrying about fragile foundations.
Diversify suppliers: Tariffs may stick around longer than anyone likes. Exploring alternative Canadian sources and mixing in global options reduces exposure to sudden cost increases.
Stay engaged with advocacy: Groups like CFIB are voicing concerns to Ottawa. Adding your voice strengthens the push for better policies, including potential tax relief.
Test outward growth carefully: Programs like eBay’s new shipping feature lower the barrier to entry. Once your local base is secure, expanding outward can be done in measured steps.
Moving Forward
The Canadian SMB environment is under pressure, but it is also moving fast. New tools are arriving, trade policies are shifting, and business owners are finding ways to adapt. The combination of challenges and opportunities means that the businesses who stay connected, resilient, and forward-looking will be the ones who come through stronger.
At CanDo Business, our goal is to help Canadian companies connect with reliable partners right here at home. Whether you are managing rising costs or planning to expand into new markets, building the right local relationships gives you a solid base to grow from.