CADA Joins Coalition to Keep Trade Free

The Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) has formally joined the Coalition to Keep Trade Free led by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to keep free trade amidst the continuing NAFTA talks that has seen the United States threaten to impose steep tariffs on automobiles.

“As we have seen, the trade dispute between the U.S. and Canada has only escalated over the last few weeks with U.S. President Donald Trump continuing to mount auto tariff threats against Canada,” said John White, president and CEO of CADA. “The continuation of free trade between NAFTA signatories is critical to the success of not only the automotive industry in both the U.S. and Canada, but all three economies at large. This is why we have leant our voice to the fight to keep free trade.”

In July, CADA released a report outlining the consequences of a 25 per cent auto tariff by the U.S. and proportional retaliatory measures by Canada.

“Neither Canada nor the U.S. stand to gain from tariffs on an industry that accounts for 20 per cent of all trade between Canada and the U.S.,” said White. “This is not a time for tit-for-tat measures, but rather a time to ensure that we have a strong working relationship with our partners across the border. That is why this Coalition is resonating so strongly with representatives across all industries, and CADA looks forward to continuing to work with Coalition members towards a common goal.”

The Coalition to Keep Trade Free is an initiative driven by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, and includes members from across all sectors of the economy.

“We welcomed the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association’s participation in the Coalition and look forward to continuing to engage our American counterparts on our common fight to reach a prosperous NAFTA agreement,” said Hon. Perrin Beatty, president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.