High costs, shifting gears: Quebec business leaders say diversifying exports easier said than done [Video]

With the threat of U.S. tariffs looming at the beginning of March, Quebec government officials are looking for ways to diversify the province’s economy, which has historically relied on American markets.

But business leaders across different sectors say for them, that’s easier said than done and more of a long-term strategy rather than an imminent solution.

Julie St-Arnaud is the president of Huppé, a Quebec-based furniture company that’s been in business since 1967. 

“We’re living a nightmare; it’s a roller-coaster of emotions,” said St-Arnaud following the on-again, off-again, threat of tariffs from the United States, which was put on pause for 30 days on Feb. 3.

Over the last week, St-Arnaud has been communicating nonstop with Huppé’s American clients — who represent half of its business — to offer reassurance and gauge next steps.

The company hasn’t lost any contracts, for now, but she says retailers are waiting before buying …