The North American trucking associations of Canada, Mexico and the US, all members of IRU, have reacted to the US government’s announcement on new tariffs.
IRU members in Canada, Mexico and the United States have reacted over the weekend to President Trump’s announcement of new tariffs on US imports from its two neighbours.
Road freight plays a key role in North American trade. In 2023, trucks carried 66.5% of the value of surface trade between the US and Canada and 84.5% between the US and Mexico, highlighting their key role in North American commerce.
The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) has urged Ottawa and Washington to act immediately to defuse the trade dispute, calling the tariffs excessive and economically harmful. With Canada’s trucking industry already facing high costs and weak freight volumes, CTA warns that prolonged tariffs could cripple businesses, disrupt supply chains, and damage both economies.
Mexico’s National Chamber of Cargo Transportation (CANACAR) has also raised concerns that the tariffs will disrupt trade and increase costs just as the freight sector begins recovering from a prolonged downturn. CANACAR is calling on both governments to seek solutions that protect supply chain competitiveness, prevent consumer price hikes, and safeguard businesses on both sides of the border.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) has warned that tariffs on major US trading partners could reduce freight volumes and raise costs. A 25% tariff on Mexico alone could add USD 35,000 to the price of a new truck. While ATA supports efforts to secure borders, it warns that sweeping tariffs could have long-term economic consequences.
IRU’s North American Transportation Forum, run with the three national associations, will monitor the impact on the road transport sector in the region over the coming months.