CaDCR staff writer
A new, voluntary initiative aimed at fostering collaboration on Canada-U.S. trade issues was officially launched on Jan. 10. The Canada-U.S. Trade Council (CUSTC) brings together key industry leaders, labour organizations, and trade experts to navigate complex tariff negotiations and the upcoming Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) review.
The United Steelworkers union (USW) joined the group this week.
“As an international union, we know that workers on both sides of the border understand the economic importance of a strong Canada-U.S. trade partnership for their families and communities,” said Marty Warren, USW National Director. “All workers are counting on all of us to protect good jobs and provide job security through a strong trade partnership, while standing up for our key industries.”
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The CUSTC comprises a diverse group of participants from sectors including steel, aluminum, forestry, oil and gas, agri-food, dairy, chemistry and banking, alongside major industry organizations such as the Business Council of Canada and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. The council’s collective expertise aims to enhance Canada’s trade relationship with the United States and prepare for the upcoming review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Co-chaired by Jean Simard, president and CEO of the Aluminium Association of Canada (AAC), and Catherine Cobden, president and CEO of the Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA), the CUSTC aims to provide a platform for sharing information, developing strategies, and engaging in constructive dialogue with government officials. It is not designed to function as a lobbying or advocacy organization but will focus on fostering open discussions among stakeholders.
“By bringing together, from across Canada, industry, unions and experts, the Council provides a dynamic and timely platform to freely address issues, strategies and opportunities with Government officials. This crisis is worth all our efforts, and we must seize the moment to grow Canada stronger within a safer, more secure and competitive business environment for our future. Co-chairing this initiative with my colleague from the steel industry is a privilege,” AAC president and CEO Jean Simard said in a statement.
“At this moment in time, it is crucial that the Canadian business and labour communities come together to reimagine our future with our most important trading partner: the United States. I am very honoured to co-chair this Council that convenes some of the strongest voices in the country to support Canada’s interests and opportunities through the journey ahead, CSPA president and CEO Catherine Cobden said in the news release.
“Given the very seriousness of this moment and the existential threat to Canadian jobs and our economy, we see it’s important for Canadians to pull together and work together during these difficult times. We must put workers and the country first,” said Unifor national president Lana Payne.
“The CUSTC provides a timely opportunity to address trade issues affecting both industry and workers,” said Simard. “By collaborating across sectors, we can develop strategies that will help ensure Canada’s long-term competitiveness and economic security.”
Cobden emphasized the importance of reimagining Canada’s future trade relationship with the U.S. “In these uncertain times, it is crucial that the Canadian business and labour communities unite to advocate for our industries, strengthen job security, and protect the Canadian economy,” she said.
Regular meetings with Canadian and provincial government officials will help ensure that the council remains informed of developments and maintains an ongoing dialogue on trade-related issues.
“With $1.3 trillion in goods and services crossing the border annually, Canada is America’s largest customer,” said Kirsten Hillman, Canada’s ambassador to the U.S. “It is critical that business and labour leaders collaborate to strengthen this strategic partnership.”
