Point Roberts, Washington, a unique U.S. exclave accessible only through Canada, is facing an economic crisis as escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada threaten its survival.

The 5-square-mile community, home to approximately 1,000 year-round residents, has seen business decline dramatically due to President Donald Trump's recent implementation of cross-border tariffs and Canada's promised retaliatory measures [1,7].

Local businesses report severe economic impacts in recent weeks:

The Point Roberts International Marketplace reports a 20-30% decline in businessLarry's Liquor Locker experienced a 40% drop in sales last monthRestaurant owner Tamra Hansen's establishments saw a 55% decrease in February compared to last year

"If we don't get the support from the Canadians, this town will die," warns Hansen, who operates two of the town's three restaurants [1].

The community faces unique vulnerabilities due to its geographic isolation. Point Roberts requires crossing through Canada to reach mainland U.S., with its only land connection being to Canadian territory. Most property owners are Canadian, and many residents hold dual citizenship [7].

Adding to concerns, local officials worry about potential escalation affecting essential services. "If it gets more brutal, they can cut off the water just like that, or the power," says Brian Calder, former president of the Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce [1].

While local government representatives are attempting to address the situation, solutions remain elusive. Whatcom County spokesman Jed Holmes acknowledges the challenges: "It's really challenging to identify what meaningful things a county government can do to change this dynamic at the international level" [1].