Context:

The Rubber Duck Museum in Point Roberts, Washington, is facing significant challenges due to tariffs and political tensions between the U.S. and Canada. Owners Neil and Krystal King are planning to relocate the museum to Canada because of the economic impact caused by U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods and reduced Canadian tourism due to strained diplomatic relations. The museum's reliance on Canadian visitors has been severely affected by the boycott of U.S. goods prompted by Canadian citizens in response to President Trump's policies and rhetoric. The high tariffs on imported rubber ducks, compounded by the fluctuating Canadian dollar, have made it unsustainable for the museum to remain in the U.S. Despite their love for the current location, the Kings see relocation as the only viable option to preserve their business and continue operations without the burden of tariffs and diplomatic instability.

Dive Deeper:

• The Rubber Duck Museum, located in a unique U.S. town attached to Canada, heavily depends on Canadian tourists for its business, but recent tariffs and political tensions have severely impacted visitor numbers.

• Neil and Krystal King, the museum owners, face economic challenges due to 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, from which most of their rubber ducks are sourced, and a resulting decline in sales.

• President Trump's tariff policies and rhetoric, including comments about annexing Canada, have led to a Canadian boycott of U.S. goods and reduced cross-border tourism, further straining the museum's financial health.

• The Canadian dollar's decreased value has compounded the issue, making U.S. goods more expensive for Canadian visitors, who constitute a significant portion of the museum's customer base.

• Despite the desire to maintain their business in Point Roberts, the Kings plan to relocate to Canada to avoid tariffs and stabilize their business model, which is heavily reliant on Canadian tourism.

• The move to Canada is seen as a necessary step to avoid the unpredictability of U.S. tariff policies and maintain the museum's unique charm and appeal without the risk of closure.

• The Kings express regret over relocating but prioritize the sustainability of their business and the enjoyment it brings to visitors, indicating a commitment to preserving the museum's presence across the border.