Ottawa commits millions to help Nova Scotia companies weather U.S. tariffs

The federal government is spending $14.1-million to help Nova Scotia businesses weather U.S. tariffs.

Justice Minister Sean Fraser, also the minister in charge of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, says the package includes grants for 27 businesses and organizations.

Fraser announced the new support at Ace Machining Ltd., which is receiving more than $400,000 to buy an automated computer numerical control milling station.

The company says the CNC machine, which automatically removes raw material to create precise products and parts, will increase its productivity and competitiveness.

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The money comes from Ottawa’s $1.5-billion Regional Tariff Response Initiative, part of a $7.5-billion package designed to help companies affected by U.S. trade policy.

The U.S. imposed tariffs of 50 per cent on about $28-billion worth of Canadian goods last month, with Canada’s reciprocal tariffs on American products set to start next week.

“These are among the first investments we’re delivering, with more to come across Atlantic Canada,” Fraser said in a statement.