The Emergencies Act was invoked for the first time on February 14 by Prime Minister Trudeau, a measure that should provide some relief to the Canadian produce industry exporting to the U.S. through critical ports of entry or importing from southern states. The intent is to enforce these powers for 30 days. 

“The scope of these measures will be time limited, geographically targeted, as well as reasonable and proportionate to the threats they are meant to address,” said Trudeau. At this time, it’s unclear what action might be taken at the Coutts, Alberta or Emerson, Manitoba border crossings. 

In Ontario, the Ambassador Bridge connecting Windsor to Detroit, Michigan is critical to restoring confidence to businesses as well as the trading relationship with the United States.

“Both governments have put an exclamation mark on keeping the border open,” stated Aaron Coristine, manager of science, regulatory affairs and government relations for the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers.

“During the blockage of the Ambassador Bridge, our growers were able to reroute through other ports of entry,” he explained. “The double edge of that sword was that shipping times were increased and costs of logistics doubled. The focus was on fulfilling domestic cucumber demand.”

The effects on greenhouse vegetable growers were minimal, but the outcome would have been much different if the blockades were staged during the peak season of May through October. 

Although the Ambassador Bridge was opened at 11 pm February 13, growers aren’t anxious for their truckers to be first in line to cross the bridge. It’s still a fluid situation.  

Source:  Interview with Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers February 14, 2022