As U.S. tariffs roil markets, Canadian businesses build on European ties at world trade fair in Germany

[hotznplotzn@lemmy.sdf.org]

In a sprawling exhibition centre in Hanover, Germany, thousands of businesses, including 250 from Canada, are taking part in one of the world's largest trade fairs focused on industrial technology and innovation.

Rows of booths and flashy displays are meant to spark conversation, but much of the discussion has been about the U.S. tariffs, which have roiled markets, compromised relations and forced some businesses to accelerate their push for new trading partners.

"I was scared, I was very nervous, but it has been absolutely overwhelming to see the response and the reception we are getting from European markets," said Brad Sparkman, president of Ontario-based Innovating Finishing Solutions.

As both Canada and the European Union (EU) take stock of the tariffs levied by the U.S., their most important trading partner, businesses are trying to assess exactly how they will be impacted — and whether they can mitigate some of the economic hit by strengthening other trade relationships.