Lamont, CBIA Sound Alarm Over Trump's Trade War with Canada

Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Business and Industry Association (CBIA) expressed concern over President Trump's trade war with Canada, which they say will hurt both residents and businesses in the state. The tariffs on Canadian goods, including aluminum, are set to increase by 50% next month.

Lamont stated that if a trade war is instituted with Canada, it may lead to tariffs on hydroelectric power and natural gas, increasing electric prices. CBIA's director of the Foundation for Economic Growth & Opportunity, Dustin Nord, said that new uncertainty in the trade relationship will create more uncertainty for businesses planning future investments.

The setting was the Twelve Percent Beer Project, a contract brewer in North Haven, where the governor and other officials spoke about the rising costs of aluminum cans. Bridget Blank, co-owner of the brewery, mentioned that her business has seen a 50% increase in aluminum prices over the past year and a half.

Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz stated that these tariffs are 'hurtful' to both residents and businesses, adding that exports represent 6% of Connecticut's economy and support more than 50,000 jobs.