Chair's Message

Richelle Andreas Chair | Board of Directors Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada

The theme of this issue, “Changing Trade Realities” is very appropriate for the world in which we live today. In the past year, much has changed: a USMCA agreement has been reached but has not yet been final scripted let alone ratified, tariffs on steel and aluminum have been put in place and more. From one day to another, we never know what may change. This makes agricultural manufacturing more challenging than ever. I also think of our end customers – farmers – and how they are dealing with these turbulent times.

In this issue, we are pleased to give you a trade perspective from our Minister of International Trade, Jim Carr. Thank you to Axalta for sharing their view on changing trade realities as well as their adaptation strategies. Compass Rose has provided a thoughtful perspective on trade negotiations and recent trade agreements. In addition, AON has provided a detailed and practical article on insurance as it relates to international trade and travel.

The last year has also been one of change at AMC with staff flux and a new Executive Director now coming on board. Throughout, one constant has been and will continue to be your talented and committed members of our board.

Over the last several years, AMC has itself changed significantly, for the better. We have advanced the interests of our members and we are stronger and more unified than in the past. We now have a significant lobby presence as well as more engagement from our members. This positions us well to support our members and our industry in these difficult times.

AMC has much more work to do on your behalf and I am personally looking forward to the next chapter, despite the change we all experience every day.