C-USBA Washington DC Delegation Recap

March 5, 2025

C-USBA founders had the honor of leading the Canada-US Business Alliance (C-USBA) delegation that held high-impact meetings with key US Senators, Congressmen, and policymakers from critical committees on Trade, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Relations, Ways & Means, Finance, and more to discuss the future of Canada-US trade and economic collaboration. Discussions included Senator Ted Cruz, Sen. Barrasso, Sen. Cornyn, Sen. Tuberville, Rep. McCaul, Rep. Moran, among others. This was the 2nd delegation after inauguration.

Key Takeaways:

Tariffs as Political Leverage: While a Trump administration may threaten tariffs, many legislators see them as short-term tools for policy goals like border security and the fentanyl crisis.
Fentanyl Crisis: This is most critical issue, for which Canada must take proactive steps in law enforcement, intelligence sharing, & new technologies.
Border Security & Immigration: Strengthening border security and closing immigration loopholes are shared priorities.

Recommendations for Canadian Leadership:

Maintain composure in negotiations, showing strength without offense; work around conflict and bring value.
Proactively demonstrate commitment to border security & fentanyl issues—increased enforcement, intelligence cooperation, cartel disruptions, border presence, showcase newer commitments, Fentanyl arrests.
Fill Canada’s leadership vacuum swiftly and move with a unified voice.
Strengthen public support for US relations.
On USMCA, address US trade concerns (dairy, grain, alcohol, supply management, digital services tax) while identifying barriers facing Canadian businesses.

Opportunities for Collaboration:

Reinforcing global economic security & competitiveness through joint strategies.
AI Collaboration: Positioning Canada as a key partner in US AI dominance.
Critical Minerals & Affordable Housing: Strengthening cross-border strategies.

At C-USBA, we are committed to driving win-win solutions through actionable proposals. Our unique position as business leaders allowed for open, constructive dialogue with US officials, providing valuable insights & shaping future policy directions. We remain dedicated to fostering a resilient Canada-US trade relationship and invite collaboration from stakeholders to drive meaningful economic progress. As C-USBA represents 2,000 businesses in Canada & 500 in the US, we have the leverage to make an impact!