For Immediate Release
Canadian Automobile Dealers Association formally joins Chamber-led Coalition to Keep Trade Free
(Ottawa, ON) – August 23, 2018 – Amid the escalating trade dispute between NAFTA signatories, the Canadian Automobile Association has formally joined the Coalition to Keep Trade Free led by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
“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. The Coalition provides communications support to members, including key messages, outreach templates, and social media support.
“By joining the Coalition to Keep Trade Free, CADA is lending its view and weight to this issue so critical to Canada’s prosperity,” said White. “The Coalition will have done its work if we end up with a more modernized NAFTA agreement, a centralized voice advocating for freer trade, and ultimately a sharpened Canadian economy.” Visit the Coalition’s website for more information by clicking here.
