Introduction & Methodology
A recent online survey conducted by Bob Marra of GPS Market Intel based in Palm Desert, California set out to gauge how Canadians feel about the new and proposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports. The survey asked about overall sentiment, perceived economic impact, willingness to boycott American products, and intentions to reduce or cancel U.S. travel. A total of 1,972 people who confirmed they are Canadian residents aged 18 or older completed the survey and their responses form the basis of this analysis.
- Survey Window: March 4–11, 2025
- Total Responses: 1,972
- Objective: Assess Canadian attitudes toward the new tariffs and potential changes in their consumer behavior or travel plans.
- Special Acknowledgment: GPS Market Intel thanks Miles Zimbaluk and his company Canada to USA (www.canadatousa.com) for introducing the survey to its vast membership base comprised of Canadian residents who responded in a robust manner.
- Canadian Residency and Demographics
- Yes (Canadian & 18+): 1,972
- No: 26
This near-unanimous eligibility (99% of participants) ensures that the survey results accurately represent a Canadian viewpoint on the tariffs.
- Overall Sentiment Toward Tariffs
- Very negative: 1,591 (80.7%)
- Somewhat negative: 109 (5.5%)
- Neutral: 119 (6.0%)
- Somewhat positive: 43 (2.2%)
- Very positive: 111 (5.6%)
Interpretation:
- A striking 86% of respondents feel negatively (either strongly or somewhat) about the tariffs—signaling broad dissatisfaction.
- Only 7.8% hold any form of positive view, reflecting limited support within the sample.
- The dominance of “very negative” underscores the intensity of displeasure.
- Perceived Economic Harm
- Yes, a major negative impact: 1,521 (77.1%)
- Yes, but only a minor negative impact: 342 (17.3%)
- No, not at all: 43 (2.2%)
- Unsure: 66 (3.3%)
Interpretation:
- Over 94% predict some negative consequences for Canada’s economy, with a majority calling it “major.”
- This near consensus highlights a belief that the tariffs could have wide-ranging effects on jobs, prices, and exports.
- Influence on Purchasing of U.S. Goods
The survey asked how participants’ feelings would impact their buying habits of American goods.
- Boycott all U.S. goods: 1,171 (59.3%)
- Cut back substantially: 485 (24.6%)
- Cut back slightly: 79 (4%)
- Not at all: 238 (12%)
Interpretation:
- 9% plan to reduce consumption of U.S. products in some way, with 1,171 (59.3%) affirming a complete boycott.
- Such a substantial shift in Canadian consumer behavior could have major tangible economic and brand implications for American businesses relying on cross-border sales.
- Potential Reduction or Cancellation of Travel to the U.S.
- Yes, I will cancel all travel: 1,094 (55.5%)
- Yes, I will reduce travel: 384 (19.5%)
- No: 396 (20.1%)
- I do not travel to the U.S.: 98 (5.0%)
Interpretation:
- Roughly 75% of those who do visit the U.S. (i.e., excluding the 5% who do not travel at all) say they’ll cancel or cut back.
- This is significant for tourism-dependent regions, particularly in sunbelt states, winter getaways, and border communities that rely on Canadian visitors.
- Part-Time U.S. Residency
Among 1,970 answers, participants indicated whether they spend over 30 days a year in the United States and if they plan to reduce that time because of tariffs:
- Yes (will reduce time): 474 (57.4%)
- No: 263 (31.8%)
- Not sure: 88 (10.7%)
- I do not live in the U.S. part-time: 1,145
Interpretation:
- Of those who do live part-time in the U.S., a clear majority (474 out of 825 part-timers equal to 57.4%) plan to reduce their stays.
- Extended stay “snowbirds,” known for contributing significant tourism and real-estate dollars, could become a risk to the U.S. economy if their negative feelings towards tariffs linger and change their decisions regarding future travel destinations by eliminating the U.S.
- Open-Ended Comments
The survey’s free-response section featured a range of opinions—some calm and policy-focused, others more emotional or personal. Below are recurring themes:
- Anger & Frustration with U.S. Policy: “I am retired… the impact on our country and the USA will be considerable, and for no good reason.”
- Dislike for U.S. Administration: Multiple references to President Trump’s “bombastic” or “ignorant” approach. One respondent wrote simply, “Hate Trump.”
- Economic Pragmatism: Some participants noted they were financially secure and wouldn’t be personally hurt but still fear broader harm to Canada-U.S. relations.
- Desire for Diplomatic Resolution: “I would prefer to see both governments at the negotiating table… so that citizens of both countries do not take the brunt of this exchange any longer.”
- Potential Moves to Liquidate U.S. Assets: Comments such as “We are hoping to sell our home in the USA this year…” indicate a willingness to divest from the U.S. property market if the political climate remains unstable.
Interpretation:
- While some Canadians expect minimal personal impact, there is a strong undercurrent of resentment toward the U.S. government’s trade policies.
- The viewpoint that tariffs are “unnecessary” or “politically motivated” is common.
- A sizable subset remains open to a cooperative solution, emphasizing negotiation and diplomacy over retaliatory measures.
Broader Implications
- Consumer Spending: The large majority planning to boycott or reduce purchases of U.S. products suggests retailers and brands may feel immediate effects if consumers follow through.
- Tourism & Travel: The potential drop in visitors could be severe, especially for southern destinations that cater to Canadian “snowbirds.” Local hospitality, restaurants, and real-estate markets could be hit hard.
- Economic Ties: Canada and the U.S. share robust integration in manufacturing and services. Sustained tariffs, coupled with a consumer backlash, could destabilize cross-border supply chains.
- Long-Term Sentiment Shift: If negative attitudes persist, they could reshape Canada-U.S. relations well beyond the current administration. Rhetoric in the open-ended comments suggests an erosion of trust that may not be quickly reversed.
Survey Respondents by Canadian Province
| Alberta | 14.6% |
| British Columbia | 19.7% |
| Manitoba | 4.0% |
| New Brunswick | 4.2% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 5.0% |
| Nova Scotia | 9.1% |
| Ontario | 31.2% |
| Prince Edward Island | 0.9% |
| Quebec | 9.5% |
| Saskatchewan | 1.8% |
Conclusion
This survey of 1,972 Canadians provides strong evidence of widespread negativity regarding the newly imposed U.S. tariffs. Canadians overwhelmingly anticipate major economic harm, plan to boycott American goods, and appear ready to curtail their U.S. travel. The insights from open-ended comments highlight not only a deep sense of frustration but also calls for constructive negotiation to reduce harm on both sides of the border.
As businesses, policymakers, and communities assess the outcomes of these tariffs, this data serves as a timely gauge of public sentiment. Should high tariffs and inflammatory rhetoric continue, the negative implications for cross-border trade, tourism, and long-standing cultural ties could intensify. Conversely, a swift resolution or diplomatic compromise might temper these strong reactions and restore confidence.
