Canadian cheesemakers were gaining major traction in the U.S., winning top awards and expanding exports — until the Trump administration imposed 50% tariffs on Canadian cheese. The tariffs have disrupted supply chains, halted shipments, and forced producers to reconsider their American market strategies. Importers like Brad Dubé of Brooklyn-based Food Matters Again report sharp sales declines, while cheesemakers such as Fromagerie La Station and Fromagerie du Presbytère have paused or scaled back exports.
Despite the setbacks, the quality of Canadian cheese — including award-winners like Raclette de Compton au poivre and Alfred Le Fermier — continues to impress American cheese enthusiasts. The University of Guelph has helped streamline cross-border logistics since 2023, but regulatory hurdles remain. As the industry awaits tariff relief, many are reevaluating margins and long-term U.S. ambitions.
Source: New York Times Business · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing