ECABC: Update on Tariffs and the Electrical Contractor Industry
September 11, 2026
Tariffs are once again front of mind for Canadians and businesses after negotiations for a new trade deal between Canada and the United States fell through last week.
The United States responded to the failed trade talks by introducing 50 per cent tariffs on approximately $28 billion of Canadian goods, which came into effect on August 22, 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced Canada’s intent to place retaliatory “dollar for dollar” tariffs on US products. The tariffs range from 15 to 50 per cent, generally corresponding to products impacted by the United States. The complete list of products impacted by the counter-tariffs is posted on the federal government’s website.
The new policy will have a direct impact on BC’s construction industry, with tariffs applying to steel and steel products, aluminum, select lumber categories, lighting fixtures and more.
Canada’s federal government has also announced a $7.5 billion support package to assist with impacts to workers and the economy. The dollars will extend some Employment Insurance benefits, implement new EI programs, and make funding available to employers with EI work-sharing and retention programs.
![Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 74 — Airport installations](https://electricalindustry.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EIN-Stock-Guide-Code-Canada-Map-1200-768x403.png)
![Guide to the Canadian Electrical Code, Part 1[i], 26th Edition– A Road Map: Section 74 — Airport installations](https://electricalindustry.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/EIN-Stock-Guide-Code-Canada-Map-1200.png)
