2025 is set to be a year of transformation for Canada’s supply chain sector. Shifting trade policies, rising costs, and game-changing technologies are reshaping the landscape. On top of that, booming industries like mining are creating new opportunities—and new hiring challenges.

So, the big question: How do you find and hire the right supply chain talent to keep your business moving forward?

In this article, we’ll break down the major trends shaping supply chains this year—from tariffs and reshoring to AI-driven efficiencies—and what they mean for hiring the best talent.

Trade Policies & Tariffs: The Push for Reshoring and New Markets

Trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. are heating up again. In early 2025, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on many Canadian imports, with energy products facing an additional 10% tariff. In response, Canada hit back with a 25% tariff on over $30 billion worth of U.S. goods.

For Canadian businesses relying on cross-border trade, this means higher costs and uncertainty. Many companies are reshoring—bringing production back to Canada—not just to avoid tariffs but to build stronger, more resilient supply chains that are less exposed to political and economic instability.

At the same time, companies are diversifying their trade strategies:

• Expanding into new international markets – With U.S. trade becoming more expensive, businesses are eyeing opportunities in Europe, Asia, and South America.
• Nearshoring to Mexico and Central America – Some companies are shifting sourcing away from the U.S. to stabilize their supply chains.
• Strengthening domestic supplier networks – To reduce reliance on unpredictable global trade dynamics.

Key hiring takeaway: Companies need supply chain professionals who understand global trade policies, tariffs, and logistics strategy to help them adapt to these shifts.

Mining Boom: A Bright Spot for Supply Chains

It’s not all bad news. Canada’s mining sector is booming, thanks to rising global demand for critical minerals like copper, gold, and zinc—key materials for EV batteries, renewable energy, and smart grids. 

The Canadian government is backing this growth with major investments in infrastructure, including a $43.5 million boost to Quebec’s critical minerals sector to meet rising demand. In response to global trade uncertainties, B.C. has also prioritized the acceleration of 18 critical mineral and energy projects, collectively valued at approximately $20 billion. This initiative aims to strengthen the province's resource sector and mitigate potential economic impacts from international trade tensions. 

For supply chain professionals, this translates to new hiring demands in logistics, procurement, and sustainability:

• Heavy equipment procurement and transport – Moving raw materials efficiently requires expertise in complex logistics.
• Regulatory compliance and sustainability – Mining companies need experts who can balance efficiency with environmental commitments.
• Green supply chain strategies – Reducing carbon footprints is a growing priority, creating demand for sustainable transport and logistics professionals.

Key hiring takeaway: If you’re in the mining industry, now’s the time to recruit supply chain talent experienced in resource logistics, sustainability, and large-scale transportation networks.

AI & Automation: The Supply Chain of the Future

AI is revolutionizing supply chains—and not just for tech companies. Businesses are using AI for everything from predicting demand and optimizing inventory to automating warehouses and transportation logistics.

Retailers, for example, are leveraging AI to manage tariff-related costs. Predictive analytics allow businesses to simulate financial scenarios, ensuring they don’t overstock or understock due to shifting trade policies. 

But AI is only as good as the people using it. Companies that want to stay competitive need professionals who understand AI-driven decision-making and data analytics.

AI is also changing transportation and logistics:

• Self-learning systems are optimizing delivery routes to cut fuel costs and avoid disruptions.
• Automated inventory management is reducing waste and improving efficiency.
• AI-powered procurement tools are helping businesses negotiate better supplier contracts.

Key hiring takeaway: Data analytics, AI, and automation skills are becoming must-haves for supply chain professionals. If you’re not hiring for these skills yet, now’s the time to start.

Cost Reduction Strategies in an Inflationary Market

With inflation remaining unpredictable, cost-cutting is a top priority for businesses in 2025. Supply chain efficiencies are a key focus, with companies looking at strategies like:

• Diversifying suppliers – Avoiding over-reliance on a single region or partner to reduce financial risk.
• Leveraging automation – AI-driven tools are streamlining operations and cutting waste.
• Reevaluating transportation costs – Businesses are renegotiating carrier contracts and exploring alternative shipping methods like rail over trucking to save money. 

But cutting costs without sacrificing efficiency requires smart, strategic hiring. Companies need supply chain leaders who can think critically, adapt to changing conditions, and find creative solutions to keep operations lean without compromising quality.

Key hiring takeaway: The best hires in 2025 will be those who can drive cost efficiency while maintaining supply chain resilience.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for Hiring

If one thing is clear in 2025, it’s this: supply chain talent is more valuable than ever. The companies that thrive will be those that invest in hiring strategic, forward-thinking professionals who can navigate:

• Global trade and logistics – Tariffs, reshoring, and market expansion.
• AI and automation – Leveraging technology for efficiency gains.
• Mining and resource logistics – Supporting Canada’s booming mining sector.
• Cost management and resilience – Finding smart ways to cut costs without cutting corners.

Hiring in supply chain isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about finding problem-solvers who can adapt to a fast-changing environment. If you’re not actively looking for these skill sets, now’s the time to start.

Horizon’s supply chain recruitment division stands among Canada’s largest and most influential. Our expert team powers industries from mining and energy to manufacturing, corporate services, technology, utilities, healthcare, and beyond. We succeed at connecting top-tier talent with leading organizations, driving performance and innovation across every sector.

Discover how our cutting-edge recruitment services can transform your business or contact one of our experts today.