Why Supply Chain Skills Matter More Than Ever Amid US-Canada Trade Changes

Recent changes in US-Canada trade, driven by tariffs, are significantly impacting businesses across Ontario and Canada. This shift is reshaping the dynamics of the supply chain, adding complexity and uncertainty to day-to-day operations. Here's an overview of what's happening and how it affects the supply chain, especially for those involved in international trade and business logistics.

What are Tariffs?

Tariffs are taxes on imported goods, typically calculated as a percentage of the value of the goods. They serve several key purposes: 

  • Generating income for governments, which can be used to fund public services. 
  • Protecting local businesses by making imported goods more expensive, thus helping domestic industries - like manufacturing in Ontario, compete more effectively against foreign products. 
  • Influencing trade policies by adjusting tariffs to manage the flow of goods between countries and leverage negotiation power. 

Though tariffs can support local industries, generate government revenue, and reduce trade imbalances, they can also lead to trade wars, increased prices for consumers, and less competitive domestic industries. For example, higher prices on imported goods can lead to inflationary pressures, affecting purchasing power. 

Who Pays for Tariffs?

Ultimately, the cost of tariffs is passed onto consumers, who pay higher prices for imported goods. Importers and retailers may absorb some of the cost, reducing their profits. Foreign producers might lower prices to remain competitive, sharing the burden.

The ripple effects of tariffs create a complex environment for businesses to navigate, where careful consideration of cost management and supplier relationships becomes crucial.

Faculty Insights: Changing Supply Chain Landscape

These shifts don't just affect businesses today - they're also reshaping the skills and careers of tomorrow’s supply chain leaders. To better understand how students can prepare, we asked faculty members from Durham College’s Supply Chain Management program two key questions:

  • What roles are currently in high demand, particularly those involving international trade and tariff issues?
  • Given the evolving nature of international trade, how can students stay informed and adaptable throughout their careers?

Here’s what they shared.

David Haigh, instructor for the Supply Chain Management program at Durham College, emphasized that staying informed is more critical than ever. He encourages students to join professional organizations such as Supply Chain Canada, the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers, and the Canadian Institute of Traffic and Transportation. He also recommends seeking mentorship opportunities within your organization to explore career paths and development strategies, and tapping into the Durham College network of peers and professors for additional support.

According to Haigh, the roles currently in highest demand include customs, logistics, sourcing, and supply chain planning. Customs and international brokerage professionals are vital for navigating the growing complexity and volatility in global trade.

Logistics experts are increasingly needed to design transportation solutions that can adapt to fast-changing environments.

Meanwhile, sourcing and procurement are undergoing major transformations, offering new opportunities to build supplier relationships and drive organizational value.

Kyle Groulx, another instructor within the program, also weighed in. He stressed the importance of staying informed by following global news and political developments. He recommends reading publications such as The Economist and Foreign Affairs, and monitoring trade and treasury activities in the U.S., China, and the European Union - the key players driving global market shifts.

Groulx also noted that while high-demand roles can shift quickly depending on the trade environment, there is currently a tremendous opportunity in strategic sourcing. With global trade instability and ongoing tariff challenges, skilled procurement professionals are in high demand to negotiate new supplier relationships beyond traditional markets like the U.S., helping organizations diversify and strengthen their supply chains. 

Interested in a Career in Supply Chain Management?

As businesses increasingly rely on skilled professionals to navigate complex international trade policies and tariff-related challenges, supply chain management expertise is in high demand.

For those interested in this field, a diploma in supply chain management offers the opportunity to build critical skills in logistics, global trade, and tariff management. By gaining hands-on experience with the tools and strategies to mitigate the impacts of tariffs, you can play a key role in optimizing business operations in this dynamic environment.

Understanding these challenges firsthand and acquiring the knowledge to adapt to them can position you for a successful career in this evolving and crucial industry.

What is DC Professional and Part-Time Learning?

DC Professional and Part-time Learning offers a diverse selection of over 50 programs and more than 900 courses designed to help you achieve your career goals. Investing in your career development can lead to promising future opportunities. You can register for many PPL courses either with Monthly Intake Online options, which start every month, or at the beginning of regular semesters such as Fall, Winter, and Spring.

What is Monthly Intake Online?

Monthly Intake Online courses are conducted on the OntarioLearn LMS platform and have a unique feature—they start every month, even outside of the regular semester dates. If you need flexibility in your course start date, Monthly Intake Online is an excellent choice. For financial assistance, please visit the OSAP Eligibility webpage. When you're ready to take the next step, explore your part-time learning options at www.durhamcollege.ca/PPL.