Full Breakdown
Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Manufacturing: The Case of Roustan Hockey
10/7/2025, 5:52:13 AM
Roustan Hockey: A Legacy at Risk
Roustan Hockey, located in Brantford, Ontario, is the last major manufacturer of wooden hockey sticks in Canada, producing approximately 400,000 sticks annually under brands like Christian, Northland, and Sherwood. The factory, which has roots dating back to 1847, now faces significant challenges due to the trade policies of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened and implemented tariffs on Canadian imports. These tariffs have created uncertainty for Roustan, particularly affecting its exports to the United States, which account for about 100,000 sticks per year.
Trade Turmoil and Economic Decline
The imposition of tariffs has broader implications for the Canadian economy. In the second quarter of 2025, Canada experienced a 1.6% contraction, marking its first decline since 2023. Exports fell by 7.5%, largely attributed to the uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs. Economists have pointed to years of excessive regulation and a lack of ambition in promoting domestic manufacturing as contributing factors to the decline of Canada’s manufacturing base. The Roustan factory's struggles are emblematic of a larger trend, as the Canadian manufacturing sector has lost approximately 37,800 jobs over the past year.
Challenges in Cross-Border Trade
Roustan Hockey has faced logistical challenges, including surprise tariffs and manual inspections at the U.S. border, which have delayed shipments. The elimination of a customs exemption for international shipments valued under $800 has further complicated cross-border trade. Graeme Roustan, the factory's owner, expressed concerns about the potential impact of these tariffs on business, stating, “Even if somebody buys one or two or five or ten sticks... they’re going to be affected by the tariffs.”
The Shift to Composite Sticks
The market for wooden hockey sticks is shrinking, with composite sticks made from advanced materials becoming the preferred choice among players. Roustan acknowledged that the wooden stick market holds only about 5-10% of the overall market share, a figure that continues to decline. This shift in consumer preference, combined with the challenges posed by tariffs, underscores the precarious position of Roustan Hockey in the current economic landscape.
Official Statements & Responses
Bo Crawford, the factory's general manager, highlighted the unpredictability of U.S. trade policies, stating, “You never know what Trump will do... we have to deal with it the best we can.” Roustan emphasized the importance of maintaining a domestic manufacturing base, noting, “It’s important to any country to have a manufacturing base of products that you consume on a regular basis.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Trump's tariff policies argue that they disproportionately harm Canadian manufacturers like Roustan Hockey, which are already struggling to compete in a global market increasingly dominated by cheaper production in Asia and Mexico. The tariffs are seen as exacerbating existing vulnerabilities within the Canadian manufacturing sector, leading to calls for a reevaluation of trade strategies.
Conclusion: A Fragile Future
As Roustan Hockey navigates the complexities of U.S. tariffs and a declining market for wooden sticks, its future remains uncertain. The factory not only represents a significant piece of Canadian heritage but also highlights the broader challenges facing the manufacturing sector amid evolving trade dynamics. The outcome of these challenges will be crucial not only for Roustan but for the future of Canadian manufacturing as a whole.
