Peace Arch Duty Free may be forced to close as sales continue to drop owner

Sales at Peace Arch Duty Free plummeted by over 60% during the Easter weekend, according to owner Peter Raju, who expected more business due to the Vaisakhi Parade. He cited rising tensions with the United States and a trade war as primary reasons for the drop in customer traffic. Raju has reached out for government assistance, requesting emergency relief similar to COVID-19 support, but has received no response. With his workforce reduced to three or four employees, the shop faces operational challenges. Raju emphasized the difficulty staff members experience in paying their rents and managing educational expenses amid these financial strains.

He noted the lack of forward bookings across local businesses, indicating a broader economic impact. The situation has left him worried about the store's viability over the next six months. The response from provincial officials remains awaited as the store's future hangs in the balance.