Canada-U.S. trade relations ‘need constant attention’: BMO head – National

The head of BMO emphasizes the importance of Canada-U.S. trade relations and warns against complacency, especially as the bank co-hosts a conference addressing key issues facing both countries.

Darryl White stresses that continual investment is necessary for the bilateral relationship, despite its recognized significance by both sides.

These remarks coincide with BMO and Eurasia Group jointly organizing the U.S.-Canada Summit in Toronto, focusing on trade, security, technology, and energy.

The event includes business leaders, U.S. governors, and various politicians from both countries, as they navigate the upcoming U.S. presidential election, the pending Canadian election, and the renewal of the North American free-trade agreement in 2026.

While these may seem distant events, White highlights the urgency of preparing for them in the business world.

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White acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming elections and their potential impact on businesses, emphasizing the need to adapt to evolving scenarios.

“It’s a pretty interesting time for the U.S.-Canada relationship in the context of those potential moving pieces,” said White in an interview.

This year’s summit, the second hosted by the bank, shifts focus from recession concerns to the upcoming election, building on last year’s discussions.

The event also highlights climate change, with prominent speakers addressing the energy transition and environmental challenges.

White underscores the ongoing importance of climate issues and hopes the summit fosters dialogue that strengthens the partnership between the two nations.

“As in our lives, in business and in bilateral trade, the best relationships need constant attention,” he concludes.

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