At Equine Register Canada (ERC), we are dedicated to advocating for a strong, sustainable, and thriving equine industry in Canada. As a proudly Canadian organization, we closely monitor policies and economic changes that could affect our industry.
Recently, tariffs between Canada and the United States have introduced both challenges and potential opportunities for equine businesses across the country. In this briefing, we’ll break down what’s happening, how it may impact the industry, and what you can do to navigate these changes.
Current Tariff Situation
Ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. could bring shifts in tariffs that directly affect the equine sector. Key areas of concern include:
1. Equine Equipment & Supplies
Tariffs on imported tack, feed, supplements, and equipment could lead to higher costs for horse owners, breeders, and trainers.
2. Veterinary Products & Medications
We are still evaluating how these changes might impact access to U.S.-based veterinary drugs. Many of these already face financial and regulatory barriers in Canada, and any further restrictions could make access even more difficult.
3. Live Horse Trade
Changes in trade policies may impact the movement of horses for sales, breeding, and competition, potentially including retaliatory tariffs.
4. Feed & Agricultural Inputs
Tariffs on essential agricultural products—such as hay, grains, and veterinary supplies—could drive up operational costs for equine businesses.
5. Insurance & Transportation
Increased regulatory barriers could make cross-border transportation of horses more expensive, affecting both transport companies and insurance providers.
6. International Event Participation
Rising costs could discourage Canadian riders and trainers from competing in the U.S., impacting their development and industry exposure.
7. Breeding & Reproductive Costs
Tariffs on reproductive materials, like frozen semen, could make breeding more expensive and limit access to top international genetics.
Potential Impacts on the Canadian Equine Industry
1. Increased Costs for Equine Businesses
From feed and veterinary supplies to transportation and tack, higher costs could put financial pressure on Canadian equine businesses.
2. Disruptions in Horse Sales & Breeding
If tariffs make cross-border horse sales and breeding more expensive or complex, it could slow down the market and make it harder for breeders to compete internationally.
3. Challenges for Canadian Competitors & Trainers
Increased costs for travel, equipment, and competition fees could make it more difficult for Canadians to participate in U.S. events.
4. Growth Opportunities for Canadian Equine Products
While tariffs pose challenges, they could also encourage businesses to source more products domestically, driving innovation and strengthening the Canadian equine supply chain.
Lessons from COVID-19: Staying Prepared for Economic Shifts
The COVID-19 pandemic taught us that financial preparedness is key for equine businesses. Maintaining proper records and demonstrating income can help business owners qualify for relief funding or other financial support when unexpected challenges arise.
To stay ahead, equine businesses should:
✔️ Keep up-to-date financial records
✔️ Understand agricultural and business support programs
✔️ Monitor operational expenses to adjust business strategies as needed
How the Equine Industry Can Respond
1. Building Stronger Industry Networks
Collaboration is key. Equine organizations, businesses, and industry leaders need to work together to advocate for support and create strategic mitigation plans within the broader agricultural sector.
2. Engaging Government Early
The equine industry must proactively engage with policymakers to ensure our needs are considered when trade policies shift.
3. Supporting Local Equine Businesses
Here’s how owners, buyers, and sellers can help strengthen the Canadian equine industry:
✔️ Buy Canadian-made equine products (feed, tack, apparel, and supplies)
✔️ Work with Canadian breeders and trainers
✔️ Participate in and promote Canadian equestrian events
✔️ Advocate for policies that support the equine sector
Protecting Equine Welfare
Rising costs and restricted access to essential equine supplies could create serious welfare concerns. It’s critical for caretakers to plan ahead and ensure they can provide proper care for their horses. The industry must also recognize the mental health challenges equine professionals face in times of economic uncertainty.
A One Health strategy—where the well-being of both animals and their caretakers is prioritized—is essential for keeping the equine industry strong.
Key Canadian Equine Businesses & Organizations
Supporting Canadian businesses not only strengthens the equine industry but also benefits the broader agricultural sector. Here are some key companies to support:
Equine Feed & Nutrition
- Purina Canada
- Masterfeeds
- MadBarn
- Hoffmans Horse Products
- Brooks Performance Horse Feeds
- Basic Equine Nutrition
- Trouw Nutrition
- Alfatec
- Canadian Agri-Bend Inc
- Country Junction
Equine Tack & Equipment
- Greenhawk Equestrian
- Bahr Saddlery
- The Tack Collector
- Apple Saddlery
- Irvine's Western Wear and Tack
- Equi-Products
- Commonwealth Saddles
- On the Hunt Eq
- Shop Spruce Meadows
- Equestrian Fashion Outfitters
Equine Transport & Logistics
- Perry Transport
- Fraserway Horse Transport
- Worry-Free Horse Transport
- Northern Horse Transport
- Equine Transport Inc
- Overseas Horse Services
- Ecclestone Horse Transport
- Eastwind Horse Transport
- WPS Tansport Ltd
Equine Breeding & Training Facilities
- Hilltop Equestrian Center
- Spruce Meadows
- W. Charlot Farms
- North Ridge Ranch
- Braecrest Stables
- Dreamscape Farms
- Eventyre Farms
- Elysian Farm
- Prima Showjumpers
- Equitop Farm
- Valleyfield Farm
- Emeska Stables
- Pikturesque Farm
- Ashland Farm
- Carousel Ridge
- Look Ahead Sporthorses
- Wachter Farms
- Sigma Warmbloods
Canadian Equine Apparel Brands
- Struck Apparel
- Asmar Equestrian
- Noel Asmar Equestrian
- Cavalier Equestrian
- Ride Every Stride
- Leveza Equetsrian
- Boulet Boots
Canadian Saddle & Blanket Companies
- Schleese Saddlery
- DK Saddlery
- Cavallo Canada
- Back on Track Canada
- Canadian Saddlery
- Western Rawhide
Want to add your business to our list?
Email kristy.laroche@equineregister.ca
ERC Stands with the Canadian Equine Industry
At Equine Register Canada, we’re committed to keeping the equine community informed and prepared. As trade policies evolve, we will continue to provide updates and advocate for the best interests of Canadian equine businesses.
If you have concerns, questions, or suggestions, ERC is here to help. Together, we can ensure that Canada’s equine industry remains resilient, competitive, and thriving.
