The Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce is not a fan of the U.S. government's decision to get rid of the de minimus exemption.
This exemption allowed packages worth a maximum of $800 to be shipped duty-free to the country.
Rory Ring, president and CEO of the CK Chamber of Commerce, told CK News Today this is a targeted attack on small businesses.
"We don't have exact data as to what the impact might be, but it certainly will be substantial," he said.
Ring also couldn't say how much the price will increase per package. This is because several criteria determine the duty, including overall cost and the type of products being shipped.
"You can think of anywhere between five and 30 per cent, most likely 30 per cent, given the current tariff regime that the U.S. government has," said Ring.
He explained nearly all of the Chamber's member businesses have clients in the U.S. since the municipality is so close to the border.
Ring stated he hasn't heard of any local businesses having to close down, but it wouldn't surprise him if this latest setback forces some to consider making tough decisions.
Meanwhile, Ring is encouraging people to support local businesses as much as possible.
He explains that shopping local is a win-win situation, as people get the products they want or need while supporting another family.