October 22, 2025

[CANADA] Latest Trade Insights with David Paterson, Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.

20 minutes

Host: Warrington Ellacott

Guest: David Paterson, Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.

Published: October 2025

Length: ~20minutes

Presented by: Global Training Center

This week on Simply Trade, Warrington Ellacott from the Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters returns for another Canadian Pod edition. His guest is David Paterson, Ontario’s representative in Washington, D.C., who offers a front-row view of U.S.-Canada trade policy amid new tariffs, shifting supply chains, and political change.

Together, they break down the current state of Canada–U.S. trade under the Trump administration, the critical role Ontario plays as America's top customer, and how supply chains can adapt to the evolving tariff and compliance landscape.

From auto manufacturing and critical minerals to AI innovation, Ontario is positioning itself not only as a trade powerhouse but also as a strategic bridge between North American and global markets.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The economic relationship between Ontario and the United States

Ontario’s role as the largest trading partner for 17 U.S. states

How the new IEEPA and sectoral tariffs are changing trade cost structures

Ways Ontario works with the U.S. Commerce Department to secure exemptions

Understanding the integration and fragility of cross-border supply chains

How recent U.S. tariffs on derivatives and auto parts impact logistics and compliance

Why Ontario attracts more than $40 billion annually in new investment

The province’s approach to diversifying trade, energy, and critical minerals

Ontario’s emerging edge in artificial intelligence, nuclear power, and R&D

Programs supporting investors through Invest Ontario and trade financing arms

Key Discussion Highlights

Integrated Supply Chains: Both countries depend on real-time cross-border flows, particularly for manufacturing and automotive sectors.

Tariff Challenges: New 232 and derivative tariffs complicate valuation and classification for exporters and brokers.

Policy Outlook: Renegotiation of the USMCA and upcoming court decisions could reshape tariff enforcement.

Ontario’s Edge: A strong industrial base, advanced education sector, and access to critical minerals position Ontario for global leadership.

Economic Strategy: Ontario’s pro-business approach—lower taxes, less red tape, and strategic investment funding—supports resilience amid global uncertainty.

Tips for Businesses and Traders

Stay informed on sectoral tariff exemptions under USMCA

Collaborate with provincial trade ministries and associations for updated compliance support.

Explore export opportunities in renewable energy, EV supply chains, and advanced manufacturing.

Use Ontario’s support programs to mitigate liquidity and trade disruption risks.

Key Takeaways

Ontario accounts for roughly 40% of Canada’s population and GDP, serving as the country’s economic and industrial core.

It remains the largest export destination for the U.S. — twice the trade volume of China and four times that of Japan or Germany.

Despite tariff headwinds, sustained cooperation and policy alignment are vital for maintaining competitiveness.

Ontario’s trade agencies are positioning for growth in AI, quantum technology, and life sciences.

Strong cross-border collaboration ensures mutual prosperity — even amid political and commercial recalibration.

Participant Credits

Host: Warrington Ellacott – Canadian Association of Importers and Exporters

Guest: David Paterson – Ontario’s Representative in Washington, D.C.

Producer: Lalo Solorzano

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Presented by Global Training Center — empowering trade professionals through expert training and compliance resources.

👉 www.GlobalTrainingCenter.com

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