Message from the President – November 2024

Increasing tariffs and bolstering borders dominated political discourse at the end of a month that began with Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. President.

Canada and the U.S. share the most successful bilateral trading relationship in the history of the world. And so, given our highly integrated economies and supply chains, any talk of border thickening, trade-killing taxes (including tariffs), and restrictions on the legitimate flow of goods and people, should be taken very seriously. It is good to see that political leaders are.

A 25% tariff on goods entering the U.S. from Canada, and any potential retaliatory measures taken by Canada in response, would – to put it mildly – cause incredible and needless harm to consumers and businesses on both sides of the border. The proposed tariffs likely won’t happen. But complacency is not an option – not now and not as North America’s tripartite free trade pact is reviewed and renegotiated.

As the voice of Canada’s railways, we were encouraged to see the incoming administration take shape and include in key roles players that understand the dynamics and stakes at play. We’re also encouraged that a Team Canada approach involving the federal and provincial governments, industry, and others is being mounted.

Hard work will be needed to minimize trade tumult over the coming term.

Canada’s railways are poised to play a major role in getting the necessary balance right, because they are key players in our economies today and into the future. From critical minerals to food, energy security to consumer goods and so much more, our railways are trade enablers. The lifeblood of our integrated economies flows through the veins of our rail networks.

To keep Canada’s trains rolling, safety is job one for every railroader – 24/7/365. And safety is the focus of this month’s newsletter.

Safety, innovation, and sustainability were key topics at last week’s RailCAN24 conference, which was a huge success by every metric. We were also honoured to celebrate safety leaders from within and outside the industry at our recent safety awards and reception. We invite you to read on and be inspired.

Railroaders working together to enhance safety and reliability creates momentum so railways can continue to serve the hundreds of millions of North Americans who rely on them for daily necessities, day in and day out.