Canada and the United States have a special bond, built on shared geography, values and interests, and on deep economic ties. The two countries share the largest international border and enjoy one of the world’s most comprehensive trading relationships, which supports millions of jobs in both countries. Each day, approximately 330,000 people and $2.6 billion (USD) in goods and services cross the border (2024). The United States is Canada’s largest trading partner in goods and services, while Canada is the U.S.’ second-largest trading partner. This trade rests on long-standing supply chains that run across the border as many of these goods involve co-investing and co-development, making our trade highly integrated.
The North American vocational truck industry is a good example of how closely the two economies are linked. Every day, work truck companies of all sizes move people, parts and products across the border in both directions. Many companies have operations or customers in both countries and strong North American integration helps them compete globally.
For about four decades, trade between Canada and the United States has been governed by a succession of free trade agreements, the most recent of which is the United States-Canada-Mexico Agreement (USMCA) (or CUSMA in Canada) which entered into force in July 2020. NTEA recognizes that trading relationships between partners change over time, and that each government has its own priorities to address. As the two countries work through current tariff issues, NTEA continues to advocate to both governments the importance of integrated supply chains and a predictable business environment to keep North American manufacturing competitive.
NTEA plays a key role in educating decision-makers about the North American work truck industry and in advocating for harmonized standards between the United States and Canada. Both governments have been open to hearing the industry’s interests and concerns. Key policy areas where NTEA advocates for alignment include motor vehicle safety, vehicle and engine greenhouse gas emission regulations, trade and investment policy, and border policies and procedures.
If you're not yet a member, it's easy to join online or contact us info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090.
Key resources
- Canada Regulatory Compliance Guide – An essential resource for producing commercial vehicles for the Canadian market
- Commercial Vehicle Certification Guide – Captures the latest regulatory information in the U.S. and Canada
- F/CMVSS Manual and Kit – Includes conformance mandates that took effect in Canada in 2019
- Ottawa Update e-newsletter – Features the latest news affecting the work truck industry in Canada
- U.S./Canada Federal Lighting Guide – Provides illustrations indicating specific lighting requirements for commercial vehicles