The cessation of movement in between the US and its northern and southern environs is to continue according to officials in Washington, Ottawa, and Mexico City, except for essential travels. The move is meant to curb the spread of the Coronavirus. Trucking is considered an essential service and therefore, will continue to operate to keep the economy up and running. Justin Trudeau, Canadian Prime Minister, stated that the border between the US and Canada would remain closed till the 21stof July, except for essential services.
Steve Laskowski was in full praise of the trucking industry, of how they have been able to adapt to the current status amidst the pandemic. Randy Guillot, the ATA chairman, stated that all have learned of how essential trucking is. He said that they have been vital in providing for not only the hospitals, the doctors, and nurses, but they have supplied the citizens at large with groceries and fuel throughout the tough times. Chad Wolf, Homeland Security Secretary, reiterated that the restrictions are meant to serve the Americans, through their safety, and the economy keeps running.
Despite the challenges, there have been increased business activities between the US and Canada, in comparison to prior periods. Laskowski stated that increased activities are a sign that the two nations are slowly reopening their economies. He equally acknowledged the fact that they are nowhere near where the economy ought to be. He added that the North-South trade is highly dependent upon by most of Canada, and trucking is at the center of it all. David Spooner, an attorney with law firm Barnes and Thornburg, reiterated that to remain in competition with China, India, and the rest of the world at large, there has to be more vigorous between the US, and both the Northern and Southern regions. The trade has to, therefore, be supported by incentives (reduced taxes and regulations) that would create an enabling business environment for all smooth running of economies and remain competitive.
