Building the Strongest Economy in the G7 Requires CBSA Support

Prime Minister Carney
Minister Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade;
Minister Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety,
MP Dan Albas,
MP Claude Debellefeuille,
Parliamentary Secretary Mike Kelloway

Dear Ministers,

As a coalition of marine industry stakeholders, we write to express our strong support for the recent Great Lakes St. Lawrence Cities Initiative letter on the provision of Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) clearance services on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence (GLSL), which are emblematic of national concerns.We applaud the federal government’s renewed commitment to expanding and diversifying Canada’s global trade. This requires a fresh approach to trade infrastructure, along with recognition of the dual mandate of the CBSA and its critical role in building a more resilient, diversified, and inclusive national economy. CBSA bears a critical responsibility to ensure the integrity of Canada’s borders; safeguarding the safety of Canadians and our trading partners. Similarly important is the agency’s role in trade facilitation, which is essential to unlocking Canada’s full economic potential, especially in the context of global instability and shifting supply chains. Yet, the limited clearance capacity and other services at ports along the St. Lawrence River, the Great Lakes and other underserved regions are impediments to growth and competitiveness.

Greater use of marine transport could also alleviate rail and road congestion and reduce carbon emissions, since vessels emit roughly 80-90% less CO₂ per tonne-kilometre than heavy trucks. The Liberal platform’s commitment to increasing CBSA resources presents a timely opportunity to address this gap, but a focus on border security alone risks neglect in CBSA’s ability to support new trade opportunities. This is why we support the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Cities Initiative call to ensure CBSA is resourced and empowered not only to secure borders but also to facilitate trade. By more nimbly responding to emerging trade opportunities, Canada can reduce commercial processing times, attract international investment, and strengthen trade corridors. This is not only a matter of economic efficiency; it is a matter of national resilience.Resourcing CBSA sufficiently to support expanding service and clearance capacity at new and existing sites aligns directly with the goals of a “Canada Strong” economy. It supports interprovincial fluidity and facilitates trade diversification with markets around the world. It also ensures that CBSA is empowered to fulfill both its enforcement and facilitation roles.

We strongly support federal investment in additional CBSA resources. While border security is essential, these resources should also recognize the transformative role of both sea and inland marine ports in growing and diversifying Canada’s global trade. Building a more connected and competitive Canada depends on it. Our coalition stands ready to meet with you to explore ways to advance this effort and help ensure Canada’s trade infrastructure reflects the strength and diversity of its regions.Respectfully,Coalition of Marine Stakeholders

Saul Polo
Executive Director, Saint-Lawrence Ship Operators / Directeur Général, Armateurs du Saint-Laurent

Maguessa Morel-Laforce
Executive Director, Ontario Marine Counil / Directeur Général, Conseil maritime de l’Ontario

Mathieu St-Pierre
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer / Président-directeur général, SODES

Wes Newton
Chair, Chamber of Marine Commerce / Président de la Chambre de commerce maritime

Daniel-Robert Gooch
President and CEO, Association of Canadian Port Authorities / Président et chef de la direction, Association des administrations portuaires canadiennes

Chris Hall
CEO, Shipping Federation of Canada / PDG, Fédération maritime du Canada