In the face of a growing trade war, city officials have put a hold on all new purchases and services directly from U.S.-based companies.
The pause is “effective immediately,” reads a statement from Mayor Cam Guthrie posted on the city’s website Friday.
“Guelph has always prided itself on a diverse and resilient economy, deeply interconnected with global markets, particularly with our neighbours to the south,” the mayor wrote. “The imposition of tariffs disrupts these connections, placing undue strain on our manufacturers, exporters and the families they support. We cannot ignore the potential for job losses, increased costs and reduced competitiveness that these tariffs introduce.”
Prior to that pause, city officials purchased 98.5 per cent of products and services from Canadian-owned businesses, the post explains. Of those, 29 per cent of the businesses are located in Guelph.
“We are #TeamCanada, #TeamOntario, and #TeamGuelph. Together, we shall stand resilient and support one another in safeguarding Guelph’s economic prosperity and future growth,” Guthrie continued. “I am committed to fiercely defending those impacted and proudly stand alongside our Prime Minister and Premier as we continue this fight.”