WORLD IN BRIEF: Iran war strains US munitions, Japan’s centenarians exceed 100,000, US war costs hit $38bn and other stories

The United States and Canada are engaged in a trade war, which is posing challenges for small businesses operating in both countries. Canada imposed tariffs on approximately $20 billion worth of US goods following the imposition of similar taxes on Canadian products by President Donald Trump. This trade conflict now impacts about 5.5% of bilateral trade in goods between the two nations.

Small business owners highlight the negative effects of the trade war, especially as rising energy costs from the Iran war further strain their balance sheets. In Vermont, Jasper Hill Farm, an artisan cheesemaker, has lost holiday orders from Canadian wholesale customers due to the trade war. The heightened rhetoric from Trump targeting Canada has discouraged business expansion in the neighboring country.

In Vancouver Island, Revival Stillworks, a company providing equipment for distilling liquor, now faces a 50% tax on equipment crossing the border, which discourages U.S. clients from initiating projects. Despite the challenges, the owners express hope for a resolution to the conflict.