In a climate of rising trade tensions between Canada and the United States, a new app named "Buy Beaver" has quickly gained traction among Canadians seeking to support homegrown businesses. Launched just a month ago, the app has already surpassed 100,000 downloads. This figure is akin to about a million downloads in the United States, highlighting the app's rapid popularity. "Buy Beaver" was developed by Christopher Dip and Alexandre Hamila as a tool to help Canadians identify and purchase Canadian-made products, amidst political and economic unrest.
At its core, "Buy Beaver" serves two main user groups: those wishing to avoid American-made products entirely and those who specifically aim to purchase Canadian goods. This dual-purpose functionality is a direct response to President Donald Trump's fluctuating tariff policies, which have left many Canadians feeling discontented. The app's creation is not only a form of protest but also a means for citizens to "hit the U.S. economy" by redirecting their purchasing power.
The app gets its name from Canada's national animal, the beaver, symbolizing the country's spirit and resilience. With the app's assistance, users can easily check product origins while shopping, an activity that has become almost ritualistic for many Canadians. Alexandre Hamila noted the growing trend among consumers, stating:
"You actually see people crouching down in the aisles, people checking products one by one, checking the labels, seeing where they're made."
The rise of "Buy Beaver" comes at a time when Canadian sentiment is increasingly focused on supporting local businesses. This app empowers individuals to make informed choices that align with their values and national pride. Christopher Dip, one of the app's developers, expressed that the topic is at the forefront of national conversation:
"Honestly, it's top of mind for everyone in Canada. It's what everyone is talking about."
While the app reflects a polite form of protest, Dip acknowledges the underlying frustration felt by many Canadians:
"But as Canadians, we're also very polite so we're maybe not saying 'F.U.'"
The ripple effects of these trade tensions have extended beyond consumer habits. Lorenzo McGregor highlighted a shift in business relationships across borders:
"They're writing in, saying 'I can no longer in good conscience do business with American businesses.'"
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also recognized this growing sentiment of discontent among citizens. His comments underscore a broader movement toward supporting domestic tourism and reducing dependence on American markets:
"Canadians are hurt. Canadians are angry. We're going to choose not to go on vacation in Florida or Old Orchard Beach (Maine) or wherever."
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