The United Steelworkers union (USW) is proud to announce its participation in the newly formed Canada-U.S. Trade Council (CUSTC), a voluntary initiative bringing together industry leaders, labour organizations and experts to address critical issues surrounding Canada’s trade relationship with the United States.
“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.”
The USW’s participation in the CUSTC reflects the union’s commitment to advocating for fair trade and ensuring that the voices of workers are central to trade policy discussions. The council will provide a platform for sharing insights, fostering collaboration and engaging with Canadian and provincial government officials to safeguard jobs and strengthen Canada’s trade strategies.
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).
“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.” – Jean Simard, President and CEO, Aluminum Association of Canada
“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.” – Catherine Cobden, President & CEO, Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA)
“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.” – Lana Payne, National President, Unifor
Federal and provincial government officials, including Ambassador of Canada to the United States of America Kirsten Hillman, have already engaged with the council. “With $1.3 trillion in goods and services crossing our shared border every year, Canada is America’s biggest customer. Trade with Canada plays an important role in U.S. economic security and supports millions of American jobs. Business and labour leadership are essential as we work to find ways to strengthen our strategic partnership with the US and I look forward to working alongside the Canada-U.S. Trade Council at this important time,” said Ambassador Hillman.
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