True Post (Web News)The “Buy Canadian” movement, which gained significant attention last year, has largely weakened as Canadian shoppers have stopped scrutinizing product labels to check which goods are domestically produced. Today, most consumers are prioritizing lower-priced options, regardless of the country of origin.
Experts say the movement could regain momentum later this year as the Canada‑United States‑Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is reviewed, especially in light of potential tariffs and threats directed at Canada by U.S. President Donald Trump. Senior Director at Kantar, Amar Singh, noted, “Depending on the direction of trade negotiations, we may see renewed enthusiasm for Canadian products influencing purchasing decisions.”
The movement initially surged last year when Trump’s criticism of Canada and global trade created economic uncertainty. Canada responded with tariffs on various imports, including symbolic items like Florida orange juice, affecting both prices and consumer sentiment.
Grocery stores strengthened their supply chains to meet local demand, labeling products with Maple Leaf symbols to indicate Canadian origin. Some items were marked with a “T” to reflect price increases due to tariffs.
However, as consumers grew weary of trade disputes and tariffs, some tariffs were removed, and rising food costs affected household budgets, weakening the “Buy Canadian” movement. Major grocery chains—including Empire Co. Ltd., Metro Inc., and Loblaw Cos. Ltd.—have observed this shift. Loblaw’s CEO noted, “We are seeing some consumers return to lower-priced products, which will impact sales of Canadian-made goods.”
According to an Ipsos Canada analysis, the movement’s appeal, which reached 65% in April, fell to 46% by December. Currently, price is the main factor influencing Canadian consumers’ product choices. Amar Singh explained, “The average Canadian consumer simply cannot afford to consistently buy more expensive domestic products.”
Experts say that if the movement gains momentum again, grocery stores are now better prepared to respond quickly to consumer demand. Patrick Chapman noted, “The supply chain adjustments already in place will remain, giving stores the opportunity to demonstrate support for Canadian products immediately if interest surges.”