Tariffs a key concern at London Farm Show | Farmtario

U.S. tariffs dominated the atmosphere of the London Farm Show as exhibitors and attendees sought to mitigate the potential impact on the agriculture industry.

The London Farm Show is held at the Western Fair District from March 5 to 7.

Rick Beunen, business development representative with Topigs Norsvin said he expects customers will feel the impact of tariffs in the near future. “We have to export 30,000 hogs a week. Our customers are going to be receiving less for their pigs when they cross the border,” he said.

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Lora Cirkon, sales director with Guelph-based workwear company The Dirty Seahorse is hoping a new wave of patriotism will send more business her way. “Luckily because we are a Canadian-owned company we are not affected by the tariffs. We don’t have to deal with an increase in cost or shipping.”

Ralph Cormack, founder of advocacy group Citizens Concerned About Biosolids, said he doesn’t expect the tariffs to have any impact on his efforts, and he and his team plan to continue to provide information and resources to farmers.

Jim Collins, founder of food ‘rescue’ and redistribution centre Harvest Hands, believes the tariffs may have an impact on food resources where it’s needed most.

He said the Farm Show presented a great opportunity to network. “We never say no,” he said, adding that his program will ensure that no food is wasted during what is expected to be a complex growing season.

Priyanka Gupta, outreach coordinator with Guardian Network, noted the current economic climate paired with the impact of tariffs can be tough on mental health. She said it’s normal to feel anxious right now and it’s important to “manage news consumption.”

Gupta suggested that taking breaks from the news can help manage anxiety and the feeling of being overwhelmed, and added that it’s important to take advantage of the available support resources.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday imposed 25 per cent tariffs on imports of Canadian goods, and 10 per cent on Canadian energy.