A photo in the April 27 edition of The Times showed a long line of traffic on 264 Street, with people waiting for up to five hours to cross the U.S.-Canada border at the Aldergrove crossing.
While a lineup that long is unusual (and thus newsworthy), the amount of traffic flowing south from Canada has grown substantially in recent months. There are many reasons — the higher-valued Canadian dollar, the high price of gas (which although high, is still somewhat lower in the U.S.), the HST and the general allure of shopping in the U.S.
Despite more onerous border rules and the possibility on a lengthy wait, Canadians want to head south. They have every right to do so. Canada does not restrict the movement of its citizens and the U.S. welcomes Canadians as visitors. They can spend money there if they so desire.
However, there are a few points worth considering about making shopping outside the country a regular habit. While not everyone will agree with these points, they are at least worth thinking about.
Canadian businesses employ Canadians. Working people in this country receive wages from their employers for the work they do. Whether their employers are retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers or service-oriented businesses, they all depend on a demand for goods and services within Canada.
Canadian businesses also support many causes within the community. They donate to charities, fundraisers and special events, and they sponsor local sports teams and other youth activities. They are an integral and important part of the community.
Canadian businesses are not responsible for tax policies, such as the HST. They charge the taxes they are legally required to. Many business people dislike the taxes they have to levy on customers, but if someone is upset with tax policy, the proper way to follow through on that grievance is by communicating with elected representatives and voting for change, f necessary.
Many Langley businesses have seen sales flatten or drop as a result of cross-border shopping. If this trend continues for a lengthy period, they will have to reduce staff. So will their suppliers. That will mean less jobs and less support for the community, and ultimately, less money in many people’s pockets.
This is not a prescription for long-term economic success.
