Top US-Canada Supply Chain Stories of 2024
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The Canadian commercial transportation sector witnessed a tumultuous 2024, with landmark events ranging from the bankruptcy of one of the nation’s largest trucking companies to significant labor disputes and looming tariff threats. These events have not only disrupted supply chains but have also reshaped the logistics landscape. Here are the top five stories that defined the year:
Pride Group Files for Bankruptcy Protection
In March, Pride Group, one of Canada’s largest trucking carriers, filed for bankruptcy protection, marking a historic collapse in the country's trucking industry. The filing followed a $100 million lawsuit by lender Mitsubishi HC Capital America, which triggered additional claims from other creditors totaling $637 million.
Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Pride Group operated a vast fleet of 20,000 tractor-trailers across 50 locations in North America, providing domestic and cross-border services, along with truck dealerships and service centers. By September, the company’s trucking and logistics operations were sold back to its founders for $56 million, while other assets remain under creditor liquidation.
Labor Disputes Halt Canada’s Largest Railroads
On August 22, labor disputes escalated into a historic shutdown of Canadian National (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) rail networks, halting operations at midnight. Union rail employees, represented by Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC), were locked out amid negotiations over pay and benefits.
The Canada Industrial Relations Board quickly intervened, imposing binding arbitration and forcing employees to return to work after a two-day standoff. While mediation is scheduled to continue into early 2025, unresolved tensions could lead to further disruptions.
Strikes at the Port of Montreal
Dockworkers at Canada’s second-busiest import gateway, the Port of Montreal, staged multiple strikes starting October 31. Issues over pay and automation stalled contract negotiations, culminating in a lockout by the Association of Maritime Employers (MEA) on November 10.
The strikes resulted in significant operational slowdowns and employee layoffs. On November 25, both parties agreed to mediation for a 90-day period, offering a temporary reprieve in the conflict.
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British Columbia Ports Face Shutdowns
On November 4, the British Columbia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) locked out over 700 workers from the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 514. The lockout disrupted operations at major ports like Vancouver and Prince Rupert, which handle $800 million worth of daily freight.
Rail services to these ports were suspended, further aggravating supply chain pressures. Federal authorities intervened on November 12, calling for an end to the lockout and resumption of port activities.
Trump’s Tariff Plans on Canadian Goods
President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to impose sweeping 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, effective January 20, 2025. Trump justified the tariffs as a strategy to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking across borders, though his statements and proposals have drawn criticism for their economic and political implications.
In a controversial social media post, Trump referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as “governor” of Canada and hinted at the possibility of annexing Canada as the U.S.’s 51st state, further intensifying bilateral tensions.
These developments have cast a long shadow over the US-Canada trade and transportation sectors, underscoring the challenges that lie ahead for both nations in 2025.
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