09/29/2026
Tariffs are creating uncertainty. But should Saskatchewan businesses stop hiring?
This week's Monday Labour Market Minute tackles a question I've been thinking about: How can local employers plan their workforce when international trade conditions are changing so quickly?
Here's what we know.
1. Unemployment in the Saskatoon–Biggar region averaged 6.7% over the three months ending August, up from 5.2% a year earlier.
2. New tariffs and counter-tariffs are putting additional pressure on Canadian businesses.
3. Saskatchewan's agricultural equipment manufacturers, mining companies and other employers are navigating higher costs and uncertainty about future demand.
But here's something worth remembering.
Uncertainty can also create opportunities.
As the owner of Express Employment Professionals in Saskatoon, I encourage employers to think about three things:
Firstly, retain your best people. Losing experienced employees today could create expensive recruitment challenges tomorrow.
Secondly, stay flexible. Temporary and contract staffing can help manage fluctuating workloads without unnecessary long-term commitments.
Thirdly, keep recruiting strategically. Changing labour market conditions may provide access to talented candidates who weren't available six months ago.
We can't control international tariffs, but we can control how we prepare our businesses.
My advice? Don't make permanent workforce decisions based entirely on temporary uncertainty.
Saskatchewan business owners: Are tariffs affecting your hiring plans, or is business continuing as usual?...I'd love to hear what you're experiencing.
Hanif Hemani
Express Employment Professionals - Saskatoon
