Canadian mayors would like to see "Buy American" thrown in the trash
On Saturday, an organization of Canada's mayors issued a resolution that would block U.S. bidders from municipal contracts. The resolution will take effect after 120 days unless the U.S. exempts Canada from the "Buy American" clauses in the American economic stimulus package.
Of all the countries that have problems with the "Buy American" limits on foreign suppliers, Canada has the most to lose. About $1.5 billion in goods move across the Canadian/U.S. border a day, and the U.S. buys 76 percent of Canada's exports. Much of that trade consists of three things Canada has a lot of: oil, water and lumber. The trade restrictions left Canadians a bit perplexed.
Canadian Industry Minister Tony Clement met with American politicians last month to warn them of a "Don't Buy American" backlash, but it looks like it's on the way.
"Don't Buy American" D-Day is coming, if this dispute isn't resolved. Mark it on your calendars: Oct. 5, 2009.
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