Leading Automakers’ Applaud Canada’s Progress on Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness.

August 29, 2009 PRESS RELEASE

The release of two reports today by Foreign Affairs Minister, John Baird, summarizing consultations on the Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness was most welcomed by member companies of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association as it accurately reflected the issues and concerns of not only Canada’s leading automobile manufacturers but also the broad range of small and medium businesses to individual Canadian citizens.

Since Prime Minister Harper and President Obama announced the joint Declaration kicking off this important initiative in February 2010, members of the CVMA – Chrysler, Ford and General Motors, have undertaken to support the work of the Regulatory Cooperation Council and the Beyond the Border Working Group. “Ultimately, it will make the North American auto industry even more efficient and consumers will benefit from vehicles that not only meet the most stringent and comprehensive safety and environmental standards in the world, but are also more affordable.

These reports show real progress on a hugely important initiative that will have material benefits for our competitiveness and jobs in the auto industry”, said Mark Nantais, President. He further said that “the industry will now be looking forward to the actions plans that will address our need for alignment of trusted trader customs facilitation programs and border crossing procedures and vehicle standards harmonization between Canada and the United States.”

About the CVMA

The Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association is the industry association that has represented Canada’s leading manufacturers of light and heavy duty motor vehicles for more than 80 years. Its membership includes Chrysler Canada Inc.; Ford Motor Company of Canada, Limited; General Motors of Canada Limited; and Navistar Canada, Inc. Collectively its members account for 65% of vehicles produced in Canada, directly employ roughly 35,000 Canadians, have over 50,000 retirees, operate 7 vehicle assembly plants, 5 major components plants, and have over 1,000 dealerships. 125,000 jobs are directly tied to vehicle assembly in Canada.

Mark Nantais
President
Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association
416.364.9333