Ontario Premier Doug Ford is calling for Canada and the United States to unite against Chinese economic influence rather than engage in a damaging trade war. Speaking to CNN, Ford emphasized the need for collaboration while warning that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian exports could harm both countries’ economies.
“If there’s a trade war, the only winner is China. Americans lose, Canadians lose,” Ford said. While maintaining that cutting energy exports to the U.S. is “a tool in the toolbox,” Ford clarified that his priority is strengthening North American trade and tackling issues related to Chinese products entering the market via Mexico.
Mexico Under Scrutiny
Ford accused Mexico of acting as a “back door” for Chinese imports, particularly in the automotive sector, by circumventing rules-of-origin requirements under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). He urged Mexico to align with the U.S. and Canada instead of fostering deeper ties with China.
“Mexico has to make a decision: you’re either with Beijing or with Washington. Canadians are with Washington,” Ford stated.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed Ford’s concerns, warning Mexico of “other options” for trade partnerships if the issue persists. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, however, has expressed interest in maintaining CUSMA while exploring opportunities with China, including potential manufacturing deals with Chinese automakers.
A Campaign to Avoid Tariffs
Ford’s media outreach includes appearances on CNN, Fox News, and CNBC, where he highlighted the economic fallout of Trump’s tariffs. He warned Americans about rising gas prices if Canadian energy exports face tariffs, noting that Canada supplies over 4.3 million barrels of oil daily to the U.S.
“We’re so integrated. Our supply chains make us stronger together,” Ford said, appealing directly to U.S. consumers and lawmakers. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has also joined the effort, highlighting the impact on gas prices during meetings with U.S. governors.
Building Trade Alliances
Ford and other Canadian premiers plan to visit Washington, D.C., in February after Trump’s inauguration to advocate for Canada’s role as America’s top ally and trading partner. Ford stressed the importance of preserving this relationship, calling it essential for both nations’ economic stability.
“Trade wars hurt everyone,” Ford said. “It’s our job to inform Americans that Canada is their number one ally in the world.”
Despite Trump’s past taunts calling Canada “America’s 51st state,” Ford dismissed them as humor, focusing instead on constructive dialogue. He also supported Trump’s demands for stronger Canadian borders and increased defense spending, suggesting that meeting these goals could ease tensions and avert tariffs.
Ford’s message is clear: North American unity is critical to countering China’s economic influence and ensuring prosperity across the continent.