Ontario Premier Doug Ford struck a notably supportive tone toward the federal government’s auto strategy following meetings with Prime Minister Mark Carney and Industry Minister Mélanie Joly, calling the plan “great” and confirming Ontario will be part of it.
Speaking at Queen’s Park after discussions with federal officials, Ford said he appreciated the details shared about the strategy and praised the work being done to protect Canada’s auto sector. While specific measures have yet to be publicly outlined, Ford emphasized that any company selling vehicles in Canada—regardless of where it originates—must commit to supporting Canadian workers and manufacturing.
He reiterated that foreign automakers should build vehicles in Canada, source parts locally, bring advanced technology with them, and follow clear guidelines designed to safeguard the domestic auto industry. Protecting jobs, he said, remains non-negotiable.
Joly echoed those sentiments, saying the federal government is establishing an auto task force aimed at strengthening coordination between Ottawa and Ontario. She acknowledged the pressure facing auto workers amid ongoing trade tensions and tariff threats from the United States, noting that safeguarding Canada’s manufacturing base is a shared priority.
According to Joly, the task force will focus on future strategic investments while ensuring workers—particularly those in unionized positions—are protected. She said trade policy must work for workers rather than against them and stressed the importance of aligning economic growth with job security.
The shift in tone follows Ford’s sharp criticism last week of a newly announced trade agreement with China that would allow tens of thousands of Chinese-made electric vehicles into Canada annually in exchange for reduced tariffs on Canadian agricultural exports. At the time, Ford warned the deal could harm domestic auto workers and said Ontario had not been adequately consulted.
Earlier this week, however, tensions appeared to ease. Ford acknowledged that disagreements arise from time to time but said he and Carney agree on the vast majority of issues. The two leaders were even seen sharing a casual meal following their discussions, signaling a thaw in relations.
Federal officials have indicated that details outlining the conditions under which foreign-made electric vehicles may enter the Canadian market will be released in the coming weeks. For now, both levels of government say their focus remains on ensuring Ontario’s auto industry remains competitive, resilient, and firmly rooted in Canadian jobs.