The Canadian automotive industry plays a crucial role in the national economy, providing direct employment to over 545,000 workers. This includes more than 125,000 individuals in manufacturing—specifically vehicle assembly—and an additional 420,000 in aftermarket services and parts. These workers contribute to an industry that fuels economic growth, sustains families, and strengthens communities across Canada.
In addition to the automotive sector, other vital industries in Canada—such as lumber, steel, and emerging sectors—are also facing challenges due to global trade tensions.
This unwarranted and unsolicited trade war initiated by the 47th US president threatens to unravel an economic partnership between Canada and the US which is more than one hundred years old. This unjust attack is expected to negatively impact workers and their families on both sides of the Canada US border. For over a century the economic partnership between both countries has benefited workers and their families both north and south of the border. It remains the view of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada that the economies and subsequent job markets of both countries are stronger when the two countries work together.
At CBTU, we believe that the strength of both nations lies in cooperation, not division. Trade wars, such as the one initiated by the US, do not have winners. They only serve to harm workers, erode livelihoods, and create unnecessary instability for families. These Canadian sectors are not only an economic pillar for Canada but an integral part of the global supply chain that supports workers worldwide.
CBTU calls upon the governments of both Canada and the United States to work together and bring this dispute to a swift end. CBTU further calls upon the government of Canada to provide financial support to ALL Canadian workers negatively impacted by this unwarranted and unsolicited trade war of which Canada did not start.
Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada (CBTU) continues to stand in solidarity with all workers across these sectors, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation to maintain fair trade practices that benefit both Canada and the U.S. without undermining the livelihoods of workers. Ensuring these industries remain competitive and resilient is essential for a stable, prosperous future for workers on both sides of the border.
The global consequences of these tariffs will not only hurt Canadian workers but will also ripple through supply chains across the globe. It is more critical than ever that we stand united—across borders and industries—to protect the livelihoods of working people everywhere. It remains CBTU’s position that the two economies are the strongest when they work together as there are no winners in a trade war.
Together, we are stronger. No one wins in a trade war.
In solidarity
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists-Canada Executive Board
