MORGAN, Vt. -- The art of maple syrup production in New England, renowned for its rich flavors and traditional methods, is facing new challenges as spring weather becomes increasingly unpredictable. Adding to these difficulties are the shifting tariff policies implemented by President Donald Trump, which have introduced a layer of anxiety for an industry that heavily relies on international trade.

Jim Judd, a fourth-generation sugar maker and owner of Judds Wayeeses Farms in Morgan, Vermont, expressed the concerns shared by many producers. Any kind of disruption with our cross-border enterprise, we feel it, he noted. Its uncertain enough making maple syrup. With a family legacy in syrup production dating back to the 1970s, Judd understands the intricacies of the business. He pointed out that the creation of each container of maple syrup is a collaborative effort that involves multiple countries. For instance, the stainless steel fixtures used to connect sap lines and boil the sweet liquid often come from China, while the packaging materials are frequently sourced from Italy. The majority of the essential equipment, however, is supplied by Canada, which is the worlds dominant producer of maple syrup, accounting for about 80% of global production and selling nearly two-thirds of it to U.S. consumers.

This year, as spring unfolds, the unpredictability in both weather and trade policies has heightened concerns for syrup producers in Vermont as well as in neighboring states such as New York, Maine, and Wisconsin. Earlier this month, President Trump temporarily eased the most stringent tariffs on various nations for 90 days, but simultaneously raised taxes on imports from China to a staggering 145%. Additionally, ongoing negotiations regarding tariffs with Canada and Mexico have left many in the industry in a state of confusion.

Allison Hope, the executive director of the Vermont Maple Sugar Makers' Association, noted that producers are interpreting Trumps latest stance as an indication that there are currently no tariffs on finished maple products. However, the situation remains complicated due to the fact that crucial packaging and equipment often originate from China. It's like the weather in New England. You wait five minutes and it might change, she remarked. Now it matters how Canada makes its equipment and gets its materials. It's hard for businesses to operate with a growth mindset when theres no clarity on what the industry will look like in the near future.

Despite these challenges, the U.S. maple syrup industry, particularly in Vermont, has seen significant growth over the past two decades. Production has surged by nearly 500%, fueled by the emergence of new businesses and a rising consumer preference for local and natural alternatives to refined sugars, according to Hope. However, any disruption in trade relations with Canada, the industrys backbone, could have dire consequences. Judd expressed frustration over the potential impact of increased import taxes, saying that he has invested countless amounts of hours and lots and lots of money in purchasing equipment from Canadian suppliers over the years. Given that syrup is generally considered a luxury product, he believes that raising prices may not be a feasible option.

We can't do this without Canadian help. We can't buy what we need at another outlet because it's all in Canada, Judd explained. We've been crossing this border all my life. The recent changes we see being imposed on the people here we're not sure that theyre all necessary, he concluded, highlighting the tension that producers feel as they navigate an increasingly complex landscape.

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Whittle reported from Scarborough, Maine.