Effective March 4, 2025 , certain goods imported into Canada and originating in the U.S. are subject to a surtax in the amount of 25% of the value for duty. The Canadian government has implemented retaliatory tariffs on a wide range of goods, including firearms and ammunition. These tariffs will have significant consequences for firearm businesses, their employees, and the shooting sports and hunting community.

For businesses, the added costs will reduce their already tight margins, making it more difficult to keep prices affordable for customers. With approximately 80% of ammunition, 90% of primers, and 60% of firearms in Canada sourced from the U.S., these tariffs are expected to drive up costs for Canadian businesses and consumers in the firearms industry. Many Canadian firearm retailers and distributors rely on imports to meet consumer demand, and these tariffs will increase costs across the board, potentially leading to reduced inventory, job losses, and business closures.

For the community, the impact will be felt in higher prices for some of the most popular brands of firearms, ammunition, and equipment. Hunters and sport shooters who depend on these products for their activities will face increased financial barriers, which could therefor further reduce range attendance and shooting event participation.

These retaliatory tariffs are yet another blow to an industry that already faces regulatory pressure due to firearms bans and unworkable laws. The added financial strain threatens many small businesses and livelihoods in a number of industries in Canada.