Fortress Am-Can: Ontario's Canada-U.S. Strategy

In response to U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump’s recent tariff threats against Canada, Premier Doug Ford and the government of Ontario have unveiled their “Fortress Am-Can" strategy—a proposed collaborative effort between Canada and the U.S. intended to provide both nations with stability, security, and long-term economic growth.

Initially, the province urged the federal government to take a more proactive approach at the Canada-U.S. border. Following the recent significant developments in the federal government, kick-started by former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland’s resignation and followed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of Parliament’s prorogation until March 24th, 2025, and his impending resignation as Prime Minister once a party leadership race is held, Ontario has been shoring up its Canada-U.S. advocacy efforts. Recent measures taken include organizing U.S. media appearances for Premier Ford to provide him with a platform for him to share his ideas on bilateral relations and continuing to work with Canada’s provincial and territorial First Ministers on a united strategy forward.

Central to Ontario’s strategy is “Fortress Am-Can"— a plan for a renewed strategic alliance between Canada and the U.S. to maintain stability, strengthen border security, and ensure enduring mutual economic prosperity. Throughout January, Premier Ford and his government have shared several announcements detailing Fortress Am-Can, with more announcements anticipated in the coming weeks.

As of January 16th, 2025, Premier Ford and his government have shared details on Fortress Am-Can’s plans to boost economic prosperity, advance strategic development, and heighten border security.

Click here to learn more about Ontario Premier Doug Ford's strategy.

Premiers and PM Meet to Coordinate Response to Trump Tariffs

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc met with the provincial and territorial premiers of Canada to discuss Canada-U.S. relations and the pending threat of Trump tariffs.  

Click here to read our full breakdown.