Canadian businesses prefer job changes over cuts during U.S. trade war: Poll

What’s happening?

A new poll found that small- and medium-sized business leaders across Canada aren’t interested in scaling back their staffing levels during the trade war with the United States.

The study, conducted by the trade services arm of the Toronto Region Board of Trade, found that companies would rather make workplace adjustments (i.e. reduce hours, implement a hiring freeze, etc.) instead of pulling out the axe.

WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru breaks down everything you need to know about changes to your job on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

The board’s report recommends policymakers focus on:

• Trade diversification
• Diplomatic engagement
• Providing innovation incentives

For businesses, the board claims they should prioritize alternative market entry strategies, supply chain flexibility, and operational efficiency improvements.

In a separate survey, the World Trade Centre Toronto found that 63 per cent of companies anticipate cutting or delaying investments in research and development if U.S. duties significantly affect their revenue streams.

SEE ALSO
• 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

While Canadian businesses might not want to significantly reduce their headcount, economic disruptions caused by tariffs often lead to layoffs.

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.

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.