On January 16, 2025, Premier Doug Ford unveiled the Am-Can Growth Plan, part of the broader Fortress Am-Can initiative, aimed at enhancing advanced manufacturing supply chains between the U.S. and Canada. This initiative seeks to create jobs and strengthen economic ties while reducing reliance on countries like China and Russia [c313dcfa].
The Fortress Am-Can initiative is designed to bolster protection along the Canada-U.S. border, addressing rising security concerns in the region. It includes the launch of Operation Deterrence, which will deploy 200 officers to combat cross-border crime and illegal activities [8ce042e9].
Key goals of the Am-Can Growth Plan include producing one million more Am-Can vehicles annually by 2028, increasing steel trade by 25% by 2028, and expanding agri-food trade to bolster food security. Over the past four years, Ontario has attracted over CAD $45 billion in investments in vehicle manufacturing and electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chains, supporting over 93,000 direct jobs [c313dcfa].
In light of recent developments, Premier Ford is reportedly considering calling an early provincial election as soon as next week. An internal memo from his chief of staff, Patrick Sackville, emphasizes the need for a 'strong mandate' to address the economic risks posed by U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff threats, which could take effect starting February 1, 2025 [7b6d4fc0].
Political tensions complicate the landscape, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau facing declining approval ratings and criticism from opposition leaders. Marit Stiles of the NDP and Bonnie Crombie of the Liberal Party have criticized Ford's potential election call, suggesting he should focus on a comprehensive plan to counter the impending tariffs instead [7b6d4fc0]. Additionally, Trump has threatened tariffs on Canadian goods, raising concerns about Canadian sovereignty and economic stability [98d467c2]. In this context, Ford's Fortress Am-Can initiative is viewed as a strategic response to bolster Ontario's economic position and ensure energy security amidst external pressures [9c07d1e7].
As Ontario's trade with the U.S. reached CAD $493 billion in 2023, making it the U.S.'s third-largest trading partner if it were a standalone country, the implications of these developments will be crucial for the future of U.S.-Canada relations and Ontario's role in the North American energy and security landscape [c313dcfa][9c07d1e7].
Looking ahead, the Gordie Howe International Bridge is set to open in late 2025, further facilitating trade and movement between Ontario and the U.S. As Canada approaches the next election cycle in 2025, the impact of these initiatives and the potential early election will be closely monitored [9c07d1e7].