Trucking alliance urges Canada, U.S. to resolve trade disputes as Gordie Howe bridge opens

The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) is calling on Canada and the United States to resolve ongoing trade disputes as the Gordie Howe International Bridge opened July 27.

The CTA said the new bridge will be a critical piece of infrastructure for trade and goods movement between the two countries, despite political tensions and the threat of 50 per cent tariffs.

A joint ribbon-cutting ceremony was cancelled because of the tensions, but the alliance said the bridge’s purpose remains unchanged as a key link between the two trading nations.

The CTA said tariffs would increase freight costs, create border congestion, disrupt supply chains and raise prices for consumers in both countries.

The alliance also said uncertainty and abrupt policy changes are undermining business confidence and investment and urged both governments to pursue a negotiated solution through the dispute settlement mechanisms established under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement.

The CTA said the current trade dispute could affect 36 U.S. states and numerous Canadian provinces whose economies rely on the integrated Canada-U.S. supply chain.

The alliance said the trucking industry will continue moving goods across the border, adding that the Gordie Howe International Bridge will serve as a symbol of continental partnership despite current political tensions.