U.S. trade war could cost Canada 160K jobs in Q2 2025, report warns
What’s happening?
The Conference Board of Canada warned in its latest five-year outlook that the country could lose approximately 160,000 jobs in the second quarter of 2025 as the trade war with the U.S. rages on.
“The silver lining is that we anticipate a swift recovery, provided the tariffs remain in place for only three months,” the report reads.
If recent U.S. duties on Canadian goods are lifted by the end of the third quarter, the board believes that employment could return to pre-tariff levels before the end of the year.
SEE ALSO
• Canadian businesses prefer job changes over cuts during U.S. trade war: Poll
• CFIB: 62% of small businesses ‘taking a hit’ from U.S. tariffs in March
• 40% of Canadians fear layoffs amid U.S. trade war, March poll finds
• Canada unveils suite of business relief measures amid U.S. trade war
Canadians concerned about widespread layoffs
The economic disruptions caused by recent U.S. duties has already led to significant workforce reductions in Canada.
🚨 KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! Check out our comprehensive blog on how U.S. tariffs could affect non-unionized employees in Canada. You can also use our free Pocket Employment Lawyer to get real-time insights on your workplace rights.
Why Samfiru Tumarkin LLP?
At Samfiru Tumarkin LLP, we’ve helped over 50,000 clients secure fair severance packages — recovering millions of dollars for non-unionized employees across Canada.
With extensive experience representing workers in roles at small businesses and large organizations across various industries, our team provides the expertise you need to navigate your termination effectively.
SEE ALSO
• Should I negotiate my own severance package in Ontario?
• What Albertans need to know about negotiating severance
• Negotiating severance in B.C.: What employees need to know
WATCH: Understand the difference an experienced employment lawyer can make in certain situations.
We specialize in assisting non-unionized employees in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia — ensuring rights are fully protected.
In addition to employment law, our firm handles disability claims and personal injury cases.
Call 1-855-821-5900 today or request a consultation online.
⛔ UNIONIZED? You must consult your union representative regarding termination, severance pay, and other workplace issues. These matters are governed by your collective bargaining agreement. By law, employment layers can’t represent unionized employees with these issues.
Disclaimer: The materials provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and DO NOT constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a legal representative at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.
About the Author
Lior Samfiru
Lior Samfiru is a Founding Partner at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP and the Practice Leader of the firm’s Labour & Employment Law Group. Known for his advocacy and success representing both employees and employers, Lior exclusively serves clients in Ontario, where his extensive experience has made him one of Canada’s most sought-after employment lawyers.
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