STATEMENT FROM DENNIS DARBY, PRESIDENT & CEO, CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS ON THE U.S. TARIFF THREAT

OTTAWA, ON, Jan. 15, 2025 /CNW/ - Today, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) sent the following letter to Prime Minister Trudeau and federal party leaders urging immediate action to protect Canada's manufacturing sector from the imminent threat of U.S. tariffs. Canada's manufacturing sector is the backbone of our economy, supporting more than one in four jobs in Canada and driving more than 60% of our merchandise exports. If U.S. tariffs proceed, they will present an immediate and severe risk to thousands of businesses and workers across the country.

View PDF

Without swift and targeted government action, these tariffs will devastate investment, disrupt supply chains, and weaken Canada's industrial base. CME is calling for urgent government intervention to provide short-term tariff relief, investment incentives, and supply chain support to help manufacturers weather the economic shock. This crisis has also highlighted the need for long-term structural reforms to enhance Canada's competitiveness, including the elimination of internal trade barriers, and modernizing our regulatory and tax frameworks. Canadian manufacturers stand ready to work with policymakers and parliamentarians to develop solutions that protect jobs, reinforce supply chains, and position our sector for long-term success. Decisive leadership is needed to safeguard Canada's economy and manufacturing future.

ABOUT CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS (CME)

From the first industrial boom in Canada, CME has advocated for and represented member interests. More than 150 years strong, CME has earned an extensive and effective track record of working for and with 2,500 leading companies nationwide. More than 85 per cent of CME's members are SMEs and collectively account for an estimated 82 per cent of total manufacturing production and 90 per cent of Canada's exports.

SOURCE Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Jane Taber, Vice President, Public Affairs, NATIONAL Public Relations, C: 902-209-9512 | [email protected]