YUMA, AZ (AZFamily) — Canadian tourists and snowbirds in Arizona are a vital part of the state’s tourism industry.
They contribute billions to Arizona’s economy, but they’re expressing frustration over the 25% tariffs proposed by the Trump administration.
With looming tariffs, many Canadians are concerned about the potential hit to their wallets. Some fear these tariff talks could permanently damage the relationship between Canada and the U.S.
Canadian snowbird Miles Attewell has been spending his winters in Yuma for over a decade. He said he’s disappointed with the threat of tariffs.
“It feels like we’ve been betrayed by a close friend, and it’s uncomfortable,” he said.
Attewell thinks a 25% tariff on imported goods would be devastating for all.
“Products that we normally buy may not be available or they may increase in price,” he said.
Other Canadians like Normand Duquette, agree.
“There can’t be any winners, everybody will lose,” said Duquette.
President Donald Trump signed a 30-day reprieve on tariff threats for Mexico and Canada, with both neighboring countries agreeing to enhance border security.
While the pause has offered a cool-down period, another snowbird Doug Bell remains concerned.
“There’s no guarantee with Donald. We’re not quite sure what he’s gonna do,” said Bell.
Garrick Taylor with the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association said tourism is one of Arizona’s leading industries and these trade wars could impact travel.
“Prime Minister Trudeau is encouraging Canadians to travel domestically and to rethink their trips to the U.S. including places like Arizona. For Canada, they are our number two source for foreign visitors, number one, is Mexico,” said Taylor.
Canada is also one of Arizona’s top foreign investors with at least 500 Canadian companies operating in Arizona and employing nearly 150,000 workers.
It’s estimated that Arizona businesses sell $2.9 billion worth of goods and services annually to Canadians.
“It has the risk of being terribly disruptive,” said Taylor.
Longtime snowbird Bell is hoping it will all be worked out.
“As friends and neighbors we hope everything will be resolved to everyone’s liking,” he said.
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