Canada preps “COVID-style” assistance programs to deal with potential tariffs

As the February 1st deadline for tariffs looms, Canada’s government is reportedly preparing a program to support businesses similar to the COVID-19 relief measures.

RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander on Canada’s “COVID-style” business assistance program and its impact on cross-border trade.

Related Stories
Shaun Haney, Host of RealAg Radio, discusses President Trump’s move to halt trade talks with Canada and Mexico over a commercial about tariffs launched by the Government of Ontario.
The review signals renewed scrutiny of China’s agricultural trade pledges and could reshape farm export opportunities depending on its outcome.
Imported lean beef continues to play a critical role in U.S. hamburger and ground-beef production, with any added volume from Argentina serving as a supplement — not a market overhaul.
A fast-moving series of trade signals from the White House and key partners is resetting the near-term outlook for U.S. agriculture.
Stay alert for trade announcements—especially border reopening timelines, tariff threats, and developments in Brazil’s export flows.
Margin Protection and the new MCO add county-level margin tools — with earlier price discovery, input cost triggers, and high subsidy rates — to complement on-farm risk plans for 2026.