An app called "O SCANada" has been developed to help Canadians identify and purchase domestically-made products amid growing trade tensions with the United States.
The app, created by developer Ryan Checora, allows users to search for or scan products to determine their Canadian origin.
"It's a buy Canadian app. It's a topic on everyone's mind especially with the threats of tariffs and trade wars," Ryan explained.
He noted that Canadian nationalists are welcome to use the app, though it's designed for all Canadians.
Ryan Checora spoke to Steven Edginton on GB News
GB NEWS
The app functions as a simple product verification tool. Users can either type in a product name or scan items while shopping.
"You can put in the name of any product, for example, Coke, it gives us a few details, you see checkmarks telling us whether it's 'good'", Ryan said.
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Donald Trump made comments saying he wanted Canada to be the '51st state'GETTY"Or you can scan the products in the shop."
The system appears to use a straightforward visual indicator to help consumers quickly identify Canadian-made goods.
Ryan described the concept as "a no-brainer for us" given current economic concerns.
The app's timing is particularly relevant as Canada faces unprecedented trade tensions with the United States.
Ryan Checora
GB NEWS
President Donald Trump has imposed 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum and automobiles, measures that Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to fight with countermeasures.
Trump has also sparked controversy by repeatedly suggesting Canada should become the 51st US state.
"Canadian sovereignty is also being questioned - so this was a no-brainer for us," Ryan said.
The trade dispute has already led Canada to impose a 25 per cent tax on C$30bn worth of US goods in retaliation.
While the app may appeal to those with nationalist sentiments, Ryan emphasised that it has broader appeal.
"I suppose it could be. It's an app for Canadians in general, you don't necessarily have to see yourself as a nationalist," he said.
He positioned the app as a tool for everyday consumers with various motivations.
"More someone who is just looking to support local Canadian businesses or has pride in being Canadian and looking to support other Canadians."
The app comes as business leaders warn of devastating impacts from US tariffs on key Canadian industries.
The trade tensions come after what Trump described as an "extremely productive" first call with Prime Minister Carney last week.
Despite this positive exchange, Carney has warned that "the old relationship we had with the United States based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military cooperation is over."
Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, described Canada's partial exemption from global tariffs as "like dodging a bullet into the path of a tank."
The Canadian election on April 28 may further influence the trade relationship between the two nations.
