American protectionism: a “Buy North America Act” possible?

Several exporters and manufacturing companies in Quebec would like to see the signing of a “Buy North America Act” to promote their economic growth.

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An achievement that could be difficult, according to Véronique Proulx, President and CEO of Manufacturiers et Exportateurs du Québec.

“I think a ‘Buy North America Act’, at this point, it might be hard to imagine, but the federal government needs to continue its efforts to get some exemptions, for example, in the industry. electrification of transport, ”she explained in an interview to LCN on Saturday.

American protectionism complicates the task of several Quebec companies wishing to obtain contracts in the United States.

The electric transportation sector is particularly affected by these constraints since the administration of the country wants to implement tax credits of $ 12,500 for all electric vehicles manufactured in the United States.

“So, for those who are in this industry or who are investing to develop it, because it is an industry that is still relatively emerging, that means that they will not be competitive when their products will be sold on the American market ”, underlined M^me Proulx.

The latter added that the Canadian market is a small market which “needs to access international markets in order to be able to ensure its growth”.

The industry would like the new federal ministers to work to make trade fairer.

“Currently, a foreign company, American for example, which wishes to access the public market in Canada or Quebec does not need to have a foothold, does not need to manufacture here locally”, specified M^me Proulx.

“We must ensure that if we give access to our public markets, and although there is reciprocity at the level of agreements,” she pleaded.

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