The following statement is from François Laporte, President, Teamsters Canada.
Sisters, Brothers,
The latest round of tariffs on Canadian-made automobiles and auto parts marks yet another U.S. escalation in a worsening trade war. These new tariffs sadly come on top of existing tariffs on steel, aluminum, and softwood lumber, posing a growing threat to working people.
Let’s be clear: tariffs are not paid by foreign governments. They are paid by workers and consumers. These new tariffs will kill jobs, disrupt supply chains, and drive up costs for families on both sides of the border.
Workers in steel, aluminum, car haul, and auto parts – many of whom are Teamster members – are already grappling with deep uncertainty about what comes next.
Our union is reiterating the need to support workers, and to retaliate strategically against the Trump tariffs.
To the party leaders on the campaign trail: remember that working people are watching. This moment demands bold and principled leadership, not political calculation. After the election, you will have to work with the US to find solutions that benefit working people on both sides of the border.
Our livelihoods are not bargaining chips. Workers didn’t ask for this trade war, but it is working people who will bear the brunt of its consequences.
This is about more than trade. It’s about respect. It’s about jobs. And it’s about making sure working people don’t once again get left behind.
For our members in affected industries, know that we will continue speaking out and pushing to ensure you receive the strongest possible support through this difficult time.
In solidarity,
François Laporte
President, Teamsters Canada
