Protecting Canadian Book Publishing: Why We Need Urgent Action on U.S. Tariffs
Canadian-owned book publishers are facing serious pressure from U.S. tariffs, threatening our ability to compete, export books, and keep our businesses viable. Without meaningful support from readers, retailers, and government, we risk losing ground in key markets—undermining an industry that brings the voices of hundreds of Canadian authors and thousands of books to readers worldwide.
But the impact goes beyond publishing. Canadian books fuel tourism, showcasing our landscapes, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and Indigenous and cultural heritage. Whether it’s a hiking guide, a wildlife photography book, a children’s story, or a history of a mountain town, these books act as global ambassadors—sparking curiosity, inspiring travel, and supporting the local businesses that depend on visitors. The stakes are high, not just for publishers, but for the communities and industries that rely on our books.
What Publishers Need Right Now
To keep Canadian published books on shelves and in international markets, we need both immediate relief and long-term investment:
Resilience Funding
Immediate government support to offset tariff costs and stabilize exports.
Emergency Loan Program
Low-interest loans to help publishers facing financial strain.
At the same time, existing funding programs need to be strengthened and stabilized. Consistent, predictable investment in publishing, printing, export development, digital publishing, and supply chain support will allow publishers to plan for the future and navigate economic uncertainty.
Building a Stronger Future for Canadian Books
Beyond short-term relief, we need smart, practical policies to help publishers compete and grow:
- Export Support Grants – To offset tariffs, shipping, and U.S. marketing costs, ensuring Canadian books remain competitive.
- Market Expansion Programs – Support for entering new markets in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, reducing our dependence on the U.S.
- Continued Investment in Digital Publishing – Funding for ebooks and audiobooks to expand reach, diversify revenue, and make Canadian books more accessible
- Trade Negotiations – Advocacy for reduced tariffs or exemptions on cultural exports.
Retail and Distribution Support – Grants and incentives for booksellers, regional distributors, and library wholesalers to strengthen the supply chain and improve the availability of Canadian published books across the country.
Strong publishers rely on strong retailers and distribution networks. Investing in bookstores, regional distribution infrastructure, and direct-to-consumer sales initiatives will ensure Canadian books are not only published but also find their way into the hands of readers. To find your local independent bookstore check-out RMB publisher Don Gorman’s Google Map featuring Canadian independent bookstores.
These aren’t just policy ideas—they’re real solutions that will help Canadian-owned book publishers adapt, compete, and continue sharing the stories that define us. The government must act now to support an industry that plays a vital role in Canada’s cultural and economic landscape.
If you care about Canadian books, now is the time to speak up. Readers, retailers, and policymakers all have a role to play in ensuring Canadian voices are heard—not just here at home, but around the world.
Don Gorman
Publisher, RMB | Rocky Mountain Books
Fellow, Royal Canadian Geographical Society
President, Association of Book Publishers of British Columbia (Books BC)
Sent from the unceded Coast Salish Territory of the Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ nations and with the acknowledgment of the Niitsítapi (Blackfoot) and the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta.
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