Poilievre Promises New Auto Pact to Boost Canada's Carmaking Industry

Conservative leader heads to Detroit to unveil plan to restore tariff-free access and revive Canadian auto sector

Mar. 14, 2026 at 11:35pm

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Conservative Party of Canada leader Pierre Poilievre has pledged to release a new 'auto pact' that he claims could win support from the United States and help 'rebuild our auto sector' in Canada. Poilievre is traveling to Detroit, Michigan this weekend to meet with industry leaders and is expected to return to Windsor, Ontario on March 15 with details of the plan.

Why it matters

Canada's auto industry has faced significant challenges in recent years, including plant closures and job losses. A new auto pact that restores tariff-free access to the crucial U.S. market could provide a much-needed boost to Canadian carmakers and help revive the country's manufacturing base.

The details

Poilievre has described the proposed auto pact as a way to 'literally rebuild our auto sector' in Canada. The Conservative leader has not provided specifics on the plan, but it is expected to address trade barriers and tariffs that have hampered Canadian automakers' ability to compete in the North American market.

  • On March 13, Poilievre set off for a weekend of meetings in Detroit, Michigan.
  • Poilievre is expected to return to Windsor, Ontario on March 15 with details of the plan.

The players

Pierre Poilievre

Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada who has promised to release a new 'auto pact' to boost the country's auto industry.

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What’s next

Poilievre is expected to unveil the details of the proposed auto pact when he returns to Windsor, Ontario on March 15.

The takeaway

A new auto pact that restores tariff-free access to the U.S. market could provide a much-needed lifeline for Canada's struggling auto industry, helping to revive manufacturing jobs and economic activity in the sector.