Canadian-owned book publishers are facing serious pressure from proposed (now postponed) U.S. tariffs on books printed outside of the U.S., threatening our ability to compete, export books, and keep our businesses viable. Without meaningful support from readers, retailers, distributors, and government, we risk losing ground in key markets – undermining an industry that brings the voices of hundreds of Canadian authors and thousands of books to readers worldwide.

But the impact extends far beyond publishing. Canadian books support a network of industries – including printing, bookselling, and distribution – while also driving tourism, especially for publishers like Rocky Mountain Books, whose guides, photography books, and adventure narratives showcase Canada’s landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor experiences. Whether it’s a hiking guide to the Rockies, a wildlife photography book, a children’s story, or a history of a rural or tourist town, these books serve as global ambassadors – sparking curiosity, inspiring travel, and driving business to local retailers, printers, and distributors. The stakes are high, not just for publishers, but for the many communities and industries that rely on Canadian books to thrive.

What publishers need right now

To keep Canadian-published books on shelves and in international markets, we need both immediate relief and long-term investment:

• Resilience funding: immediate government support to offset potential tariff costs and stabilize exports.
• Emergency loan program: low-interest loans to help publishers facing financial strain.

At the same time, existing funding programs need to be strengthened and stabilized. Consistent, predictable investment in publishing, printing, export development, digital publishing, and supply-chain support will allow publishers to plan for the future and navigate economic uncertainty.

Building a stronger future for Canadian books

Beyond short-term relief, we need smart, practical policies to help publishers compete and grow:

• Export support grants: to offset tariffs, shipping, and U.S. marketing costs to ensure Canadian books remain competitive;
• Market expansion programs: support for entering new markets in Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and Latin America to reduce our dependence on the U.S.;
• Continued investment in digital publishing: funding for ebooks and audiobooks to expand reach, diversify revenue, and make Canadian books more accessible;
• Trade negotiations: advocacy for reduced tariffs or exemptions on cultural exports;
• Retail and distribution support: grants and incentives for booksellers, regional distributors, and library wholesalers to strengthen the supply chain and improve the availability of Canadian published books across the country.

Ensuring market stability and publisher independence

While securing stable and consistent government funding at both federal and provincial levels is crucial for the Canadian-owned book sector, publishers must also safeguard their independence by diversifying their markets. Relying too heavily on any single market – whether the U.S., domestic chains, niche categories, or regional sales – can leave businesses vulnerable to fluctuations that could disrupt operations.

Publishers should take a more active role in managing their sales and distribution rather than depending solely on sales representatives and distributors to navigate the supply chain. With the vast amount of sales data now available, publishers have the tools to analyze what’s selling, identify gaps, and make informed decisions. While anecdotal updates from sales reps can be reassuring, a data-driven approach offers a broader, more accurate picture of market trends and book performance.

A strong publishing industry depends on strong retailers and distribution networks. Investing in independent bookstores, regional distribution infrastructure, and direct-to-consumer sales channels will help ensure Canadian books reach the readers who need them. To find a local independent bookstore, check out my Google Map featuring Canadian independent booksellers.

These aren’t just policy discussions or business tweaks – they’re real solutions that will help Canadian-owned book publishers remain competitive, adaptable, and committed to sharing the stories that define our culture. Government action and individual business development is needed now to support an industry that is vital to both Canada’s cultural identity and economic landscape.

If you care about Canadian books, this is the time to make your voice heard. Readers, retailers, reps, distributors, and policy-makers all have a role to play in ensuring that Canadian voices resonate – not just at home, but around the world.

Don Gorman
Publisher, Rocky Mountain Books
Fellow, Royal Canadian Geographical Society
President, Association of Book Publishers of British Columbia (Books BC)

Sent from the unceded Coast Salish Territory of the Lekwungen and W̱SÁNEĆ nations and with the acknowledgment of the Niitsítapi (Blackfoot) and the people of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta.

A version of this post first appeared on the Rocky Mountain Books website.