The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) says it is “disappointed” by United States President Donald Trump’s “short-sighted decision” to trigger a trade war with Canada.
On March 4, Trump implemented a 25 per cent tariff on all goods coming into the United States from Canada and Mexico. Canadian oil is subject to a 10 per cent tariff. Canada has responded with its own 25 per cent tariff on $30 billon of American goods.
The CCA said the trade war will translate to notable consequences on both sides of the border.
“The Canadian and American construction industries rely heavily on free-flowing supplies of essential construction materials. These needless tariffs will decrease productivity, harm economic growth, and put critical projects and countless construction jobs at risk – on both sides of the border,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, President of the Canadian Construction Association.
“Once again, the new U.S. administration clearly demonstrates that they have a limited understanding of how damaging these measures will be on the integrated economy between our two countries.”
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The Government of Canada has promised tariffs on $125 billion more in 21 days. CCA commends the federal government for its continued prioritization of industry consultation and looks forward to continuing to be an active participant in those discussions.
The association notes the tariffs present a significant risk for the construction industry. This likely means increased costs for homebuilding and trade-enabling infrastructure, impacts to our supply chains and trading relationships, and a weakening of our economic development and productivity.
The CCA also reiterates its call for all governments to consider economic measures to support Canadian businesses and stimulate our economy, in consultation with industry.
“Once again, this is a time where we need all Canadians to stand up for Canada. This is not the time to sit on our hands – we all have to work together to increase productivity and support Canadian businesses, so that we can all build a stronger Canada and surmount this trade conflict,” Gilbert said.
