WA is losing more from Canada than shoppers | Op-Ed

Washington state is losing more to Canada than just cross-border shoppers, as Canadian trade retaliation and boycotts of U.S. goods—fueled by tariff disputes—hit key exports such as cherries, apples, and other agricultural products, along with tourism and retail spending. The op-ed argues that the economic damage flows both ways, with Washington businesses bearing the brunt of Canadian countermeasures even as U.S. tariffs target Canadian imports. The state's reliance on Canadian trade makes it particularly exposed: Canada is Washington's largest trading partner, and border communities from Blaine to Point Roberts have seen sharp drops in Canadian visitors. The piece warns that continued escalation could deepen losses for farmers, retailers, and tourism operators already reporting double-digit declines. Watch for whether tariff negotiations de-escalate tensions or prompt further Canadian retaliation against Washington-grown goods and travel.