Tariff-ied in B.C.: How Trump's Metal Mayhem Could Raise Home Prices—and Beer Prices (The Real Tragedy!)

If there’s one thing Canadians can count on, it’s that every few years, the U.S. finds a creative new way to shake up our economy like a snow globe. The latest? U.S. President Donald Trump is once again considering steel and aluminum tariffs against Canada—potentially as high as 25-50%. That’s right, our polite, beaver-loving nation could soon find itself paying a hefty price just to send a few slabs of metal across the border.

But here in British Columbia, we don’t just think of steel and aluminum in economic terms. We think of it in practical, everyday terms—like how it holds up our bridges, builds our homes, and most importantly, contains our beer. Yes, friends, this tariff could mean pricier cans of our beloved West Coast IPAs, and quite frankly, that’s where we draw the line.

What This Means for B.C.’s Economy

Steel and aluminum are big business for Canada, and B.C. is no exception. Our economy is built on resource industries, and metals play a huge role in construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing. With a tariff this steep, the cost of raw materials could skyrocket—and not just for businesses. The price of homes, vehicles, and yes, even your six-pack of craft beer, could be on the rise.

Homebuyers, in particular, could feel the pinch. Higher material costs mean higher home prices, which is the last thing we need in an already pricey Vancouver market. Meanwhile, homeowners thinking of selling might hesitate, worried that fewer buyers will be able to afford new builds or renovations. And as for those of us who just want to crack open a cold one after a long day? We might start hoarding aluminum cans like they’re gold bars.

Travel Troubles: What About Our Neighbors Down South?

Let’s not forget that we love a good border hop—whether it’s for cheaper gas in Blaine, a Target run in Bellingham, or a Seattle Seahawks game (since, let’s be honest, Vancouver still doesn’t have an NFL team—but we should!). However, with trade tensions rising, we might see stricter policies and a little more side-eye from U.S. customs officers when we declare our trunk full of Costco rotisserie chickens.

Beyond shopping trips, a tariff war could make cross-border business trickier, discouraging investment and trade relationships. And for those of us with friends and family on both sides of the 49th parallel, that’s just bad news all around.

Time to Get Self-Sufficient, Eh?

Now, if history has taught us anything, it’s that Canadians don’t back down from a challenge—we adapt. If tariffs make U.S. steel and aluminum a no-go, maybe it’s time we focus on strengthening our own production. There’s a silver (or should I say aluminum?) lining here: We could use this as motivation to boost domestic manufacturing, invest in B.C. industry, and create jobs right here at home.

And let’s talk about beer, because really, that’s what matters. If aluminum prices soar, maybe it’s time to revive glass bottles? Or, we could go full eco-friendly and introduce maple leaf-wrapped beer pouches (because if anyone can make that work, it’s us).

Bottom Line: Buckle Up, B.C.

While Trump’s tariff talk is still just that—talk—the possibility of a steel and aluminum tax this high could send ripples through British Columbia’s economy. If prices go up, it might become harder to buy homes, build infrastructure, and afford a decent pint on a Friday night. But if there’s one thing we know about this province, it’s that we find a way to roll with the punches (or, in this case, the tariffs).

So, whether you’re a homebuyer, a builder, or just someone who enjoys a reasonably priced can of beer, it’s time to keep an eye on the headlines. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling real estate before prices potentially climb, let’s talk. Call Canadian Pacific Homes today—before aluminum costs more than your mortgage!