Premier Doug Ford: Trump’s 25% tariff could cost Ontario ‘500,000 jobs’

As U.S. president-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House next week, his threat to implement a 25 per cent tariff on all Canadian goods remains on the table.

If Trump makes good on his threat, Ontario Premier Doug Ford warned that the move could cost the province upwards of 500,000 jobs.

“This is serious. It’s unprecedented. Let’s hope it doesn’t cost 500,000 jobs,” Ford told reporters during a news conference in Toronto on Jan. 14.

“We need the ability to go in there and support [affected sectors and people] to make sure we protect Ontario, and return Canadian jobs as well right across our country.”

Ford, and the rest of Canada’s premiers, are set to discuss Trump’s tariff threat with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc in Ottawa on Jan. 15.

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Ontarians concerned about widespread layoffs

Economic disruptions from tariffs often lead to layoffs.

If Trump proceeds with his 25 per cent tariff, here are five things that non-unionized employees in Ontario need to do in the event they’re fired or let go:

1️⃣ Don’t sign anything immediately: Take your time to review all termination documents carefully. Speak with a lawyer before signing anything to ensure you’re fully informed and protected.

2️⃣ Document everything: Save copies of employment contracts, termination letters, severance offers, and correspondence with your employer for future reference.

3️⃣ Use our Severance Pay Calculator: Estimate what you’re owed with our firm’s free Severance Pay Calculator. This will help you understand your entitlements and plan your next move.

4️⃣ Get legal advice: Contact an experienced Ontario employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP to ensure your severance package reflects your full rights.

5️⃣ Start exploring new opportunities: Update your resume and begin searching for new roles. Proactively seeking work not only boosts your career, but also demonstrates your effort to find a new job, which is important in severance claims.

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.

WATCH: Employment lawyer Lior Samfiru explains the difference a legal professional can make in certain situations on an episode of the Employment Law Show.

We specialize in assisting non-unionized employees in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia — ensuring their 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.