For Immediate Release
Press Release
Imposition of 25% Tariffs
48e Nord International Launches Operation Prosperity Quebec to Support Exporting SMEs
Rouyn-Noranda, February 28, 2025 – The threat of 25% tariffs on Canadian products by the Trump administration has created a climate of great uncertainty for Quebec exporting SMEs. Fortunately, to help businesses in Abitibi-Témiscamingue navigate the impacts of potential tariffs and explore solutions, 48e Nord International and the entire ORPEX network are proud to launch “Operation Prosperity Quebec,” an initiative aimed at offering concrete strategic solutions to support companies wishing to diversify their markets, both in Canada and internationally, to face this turbulent period.
In addition to pooling the solutions and initiatives of exporters and partners throughout Quebec, Operation Prosperity Quebec aims to be a drop-off point to help SMEs navigate this challenging context. The following information page has been launched today to direct businesses to experienced local resources that can help them find short, medium, and long-term solutions to face potential tariffs. The page also offers advice and provides details on the support that ORPEX can offer.
Being Prepared: The Key to Successful Market Diversification
While market diversification is a priority for many companies, concrete implementation remains complex. Organizations must overcome various challenges, including selecting priority markets, adapting transportation logistics, developing a relevant marketing strategy, and seeking adequate financing. To achieve this, ORPEX can provide advice and tools to businesses.
The reactivation of two government programs also appears essential to provide optimal support to businesses in this delicate context:
1. Reactivation of the CanExport program, a Canadian government initiative designed specifically to diversify international markets.
2. Reactivation of the PSCE program, a Quebec government initiative aimed not only at supporting market diversification internationally but also promoting interprovincial trade development in Canada.
ORPEX: An Effective Solution Within Reach
As a local expert, 48e Nord International has been helping businesses in the region for 23 years by offering local services to facilitate international market development. In the face of tariff threats, 48e Nord International is working to help businesses restructure, adapt, or diversify their exports. Let’s remember that 71.8% of Quebec exporting companies export to only one market, and 72.9% of international goods exports are destined for the United States.
According to a recent study commissioned by Commerce International Quebec (CIQ), an organization that brings together all ORPEX, more than three-quarters of the companies surveyed believe that the services offered by ORPEX have helped reduce the intensity of their export obstacles, particularly addressing their market knowledge issues.
A Tailored Approach
Whether a company is just starting internationally or is already well established in export markets, it can benefit from expert advice and support for its diversification efforts outside Quebec or to implement measures to mitigate the impact of this tariff threat. The ORPEX network has the necessary skills to offer tailored support, notably through a range of services including:
– International marketing plan;
– Consulting services;
– Export diagnostics;
– Training;
– Trade missions;
– And much more.
Cutting-Edge Expertise at the Service of Businesses
Businesses in Abitibi-Témiscamingue can rely on an experienced team with extensive international trade experience.
Already, teams are working hard to help businesses better navigate and structure their efforts in the context of tariffs. At 48e Nord International, we have conducted interviews and surveys with regional businesses. We have also provided references for relevant training, information on available grants, and tools for market diversification.
To learn more about how ORPEX can help face this new situation, businesses are invited to contact the team at 48e Nord International for a personalized consultation.
“Faced with the threat of tariffs, collaboration with our southern neighbors promises to be more costly and unpredictable than ever. In this sense, the diversification of our export markets is essential, but it also forces our businesses to adapt to this possible new reality. With Operation Prosperity Quebec, we are proud to provide Abitibi-Témiscamingue SMEs with the tools to ensure their resilience in a local and personalized approach, in addition to leveraging the experiences and expertise of our network throughout Quebec. Our experts are on the ground not only to ensure the survival of our businesses but also to help them continue to grow and achieve their goals. Together, we will continue to contribute to the economic vitality of the region.”
-Valérie Lemay
ORPEX’s Mandate
Through its mandate as a regional export promotion organization (ORPEX) granted by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy (MEIE) and Canada Economic Development (CED), 48e Nord International supports regional businesses in their positioning, marketing, and export efforts to new markets. By new markets, we mean any markets other than the original one. Companies from all sectors can benefit from our services. Here, as an informative and non-exhaustive list, we invite you to consult the services offered by 48e Nord International.
International Trade Quebec
Additionally, 48e Nord International is a member of the national network of Commerce International Quebec, which brings together regional export promotion organizations (ORPEX) from all regions of Quebec. The network has 65 experts available to meet your needs, whether your company is just starting internationally or is already well established in export markets.
For More Information.
Valérie Lemay
Executive Director
valerie.lemay@48inter.com
Source
48e Nord International
