By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
In a show of solidarity and frustration, residents in Tilbury are boycotting U.S. products in response to American tariffs on Canadian goods. Local shoppers and business owners are voicing their concerns and making changes to their buying habits, focusing on supporting Canadian-made items.
The boycott follows the imposition of U.S. tariffs on Canadian aluminum, steel, and other products. Many Tilbury residents feel the tariffs unfairly target Canadian industries and have begun to take a stand by avoiding U.S.-made goods and services.
“I’ve switched to buying only Canadian produce and products as much as possible,” said Mildred Cordero, a longtime Tilbury resident. “We need to support our own economy and show that we don’t agree with these tariffs.”
Local grocers and retailers are seeing the effects of the boycott. Brent McCall, owner of Tilbury Foodland, says he’s noticed a significant uptick in demand for Canadian-sourced items.
“Customers are asking more questions about where products come from,” McCall said. “They want to know if something is locally grown or made in Canada. It’s definitely creating a shift in buying patterns.”
In a show of solidarity and frustration, residents in Tilbury are boycotting U.S. products in response to American tariffs on Canadian goods.
Tilbury Foodland is also making changes to support the movement, actively promoting Canadian-made products to its customers.
“We’re proud to be Canadian and are making it easier for you to find Canadian products in our store,” a spokesperson from Tilbury Foodland said. “Look for the ‘SUPPORT CANADIAN MADE’ signs throughout our store.”
Restaurants in Tilbury are also taking steps to support the initiative. Some are removing U.S.-sourced ingredients from their menus in favour of Canadian alternatives. Jamal Lewis, manager of Jamaica House, said his customers have been overwhelmingly supportive of the changes.
“We’ve replaced all U.S.-sourced items with Canadian ones, from our beef to our vegetables,” Lewis said. “It’s been a challenge, but it’s worth it to support our farmers and suppliers.”
Tilbury’s small-town spirit is evident as residents rally together to encourage others to join the boycott. Signs in shop windows promote the initiative, and social media groups are sharing tips on how to find Canadian alternatives to popular U.S. products.
However, some residents acknowledge the challenge of completely avoiding U.S. goods. Items like electronics and certain household products remain difficult to source from Canadian manufacturers.
“We’re doing our best, but it’s not always easy,” said Tilbury resident Mark Evans. “The important thing is to make the effort where we can and send a message.”
As tensions over tariffs continue, Tilbury residents are showing how a small community can take a stand. For them, the boycott is more than just an economic decision — it’s a statement of pride and resilience.
