Osoyoos duty-free shop struggles due to trade tensions

Cameron Bissonnette, a duty-free shop owner in Osoyoos, British Columbia, is struggling to keep his business open amid ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada. His shop, which has been in the family since the 1980s, relies heavily on cross-border shoppers. Unfortunately, traffic has dropped significantly, making it difficult for him to pay his staff. Bissonnette fears his family's store may not survive, despite his children's interest in taking over. He is now looking for a new career in real estate finance. In a recent emotional news conference, he shared his challenges, noting that some days, fewer than ten customers visit the store. In one instance, he reported a "negative $67 day" after only one visitor came to return a product. Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff joined Bissonnette at the conference. She expressed concern for local businesses affected by the decline in Canadian shoppers crossing into the U.S. Recent data shows a decrease in travel, with nearly 500,000 fewer Canadians making the trip in February compared to the previous year. The Frontier Duty Free Association warned that many of Canada's 32 duty-free shops are at risk of closing due to the economic pressures. They contribute approximately $35 million in taxes and invest over $60 million in local economies. Bissonnette and other border community leaders are asking the federal government for financial support, including loan forgiveness and grants, to help them survive the crisis. Without assistance, Bissonnette fears he may have to close his long-standing family business.