The Canadian Automobile Dealers Association (CADA) took its advocacy efforts to Washington, D.C. in July, launching its first-ever trade mission aimed at highlighting the risks of ongoing tariff disputes to the North American auto sector.
Over three days, CADA’s executive committee, chaired by Paul Williams, met with U.S. Senators, members of Congress, Canadian trade officials, and representatives from industry associations including the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). The initiative came as tariffs and threats of reciprocal measures continued to disrupt cross-border supply chains.
According to an interview in CADA Newsline, Huw Williams, the association’s Director of Public Affairs, said the mission had three priorities: engaging U.S. policymakers, reinforcing connections with Canadian officials, and collaborating with industry groups with shared interests. “We wanted decision-makers to understand that tariffs damage both economies, from manufacturers to dealers to consumers,” said Williams.
CADA presented trade data underscoring the deep integration of the two markets. Roughly 40 per cent of vehicles purchased by Canadian dealers are built in the United States, contributing to a U.S. automotive trade surplus with Canada of about $900 million. The association stressed that reciprocal tariffs could jeopardize a $25 billion export market into Canada.
Delegates also emphasized the role of Canadian dealers as employers of 175,000 people across the country and as essential players in the broader auto industry ecosystem. “The auto sector isn’t only about manufacturers,” said CADA Chair Paul Williams. “Dealers and the dealership supply chain are critical to the health of the industry and local communities.”
The mission drew significant media coverage, including features on CTV National News, BNN, CNN, Bloomberg, and the Wall Street Journal. CADA leaders said their efforts were well received by U.S. legislators, who acknowledged the importance of maintaining a stable and cooperative trade relationship with Canada.
