Vermont maple industry warns tariffs, labor and climate shifts could squeeze producers

Representatives of Vermont sugar makers told the House Committee on Agriculture, Food Resiliency, & Forestry on May 1 that a proposed 25% tariff on Canadian imports, rising costs and a shortened sap season are creating pressure on an industry that has expanded rapidly in recent decades.

The testimony combined market data, on-the-ground production detail and concerns about federal policy. Allison, speaking for a statewide sugarmakers association, described the association's consumer-marketing work at the Eastern States Exposition and the finances of operating the booth: "We sold about $230,000 worth of product," she said, and netted about $56,000 after 17 days of operations; half of the net was paid to the state as a commission. She told the committee the association is reapplying for a three-year booth contract and that the fair commission will rise from 12% to 15%.

The trade-policy risk drew recurring attention. Allison and other witnesses said most large maple equipment manufacturers produce in Canada and sell components into Vermont. "All four large equipment manufacturers make their…