Tariff Implications and Strategies

March 25, 2025

Summary

Learn how to navigate potential tariff implications in human resources with the employment and labour law group at Gowlings WLG. The presentation will be hosted by Elisa Scali, Partner and Wendy Wagner, Partner and Head of Gowling WLG Canada’s International Trade Group.

Key Takeaways

What are tariffs and why do they matter
Workforce challenges, including compensation adjustments, layoffs, and terminations
Key employment law considerations including constructive dismissal risks, temporary lay off rules, severance obligations and workforce restructuring rules
HR strategies to adapt and maintain compliance

Gain expert insights to navigate shifting trade regulations and protect your workforce. Don’t miss this essential session!

Presenters

Elisa Scali

Elisa is a partner in Gowling WLG’s Ottawa office. She is a member of the firm’s national Employment, Labour & Equalities (ELE) Practice Group and the leader of the Ottawa ELE team.

Elisa works closely with employers to assist them in achieving and maintaining compliance with employment laws and offers practical solutions to manage and minimize employment-related legal risks. She regularly provides advice to employers on all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment and background checks, employment agreements, incentive compensation plans, non-solicitation/non-competition agreements, confidentiality and intellectual property agreements, employee absenteeism and disability, human rights, workplace violence and harassment, employee policies, and discipline and dismissal.

Wendy J. Wagner

Wendy serves as Head of Gowling WLG Canada’s International Trade Group and co-leads the Cyber Security & Data Protection Group.

Wendy’s proficiency in international trade law is widely acknowledged. She is recognized as a Leading Individual in International Trade by Legal 500, by Chambers Global (International Trade and WTO) by Lexpert (International Trade Regulation) and by Best Lawyers (International Trade and Finance). In 2022, Best Lawyers named her Lawyer of the Year for International Trade and Finance Law.

Wendy provides insight and compliance advice on customs, import and export controls, controlled goods, and sanctions, including assisting clients in obtaining permits and navigating the complexities of international trade regulations. She is a seasoned advocate, representing clients before the Canadian International Trade Tribunal and Courts in matters ranging from customs appeals to anti-dumping and countervailing investigations.

Wendy currently serves on the Canadian International Trade Tribunal Advisory Committee, which functions to provide recommendations to enhance the accessibility, fairness and transparency of the Tribunal’s rules and procedures. She is a Member of the Planning Committee for the Canadian Council on International Law (CCIL) Annual Conference.