A More Open and Secure Border for Trade, Investment and People

Abstract

Canadian prosperity critically depends on the maintenance of an open and secure border between Canada and the United States. Even though the border was reopened quickly following the September 11th attacks, it was not the same as it had been. The new mantra became "security trumps trade" because of US concerns to prevent another terrorist attack. And Canadian exports to the United States have stagnated since September 11. The Canadian Government definitely needs to tackle the problems created by the thickening of the border head on by preparing an ambitious and far-sighted proposal for an open and secure border that addresses legitimate US security concerns, but eliminates all the unnecessary red tape that has been bottlenecking the border. This paper offers concrete suggestions for improving the flow of goods,services, people and investment without sacrificing security.Canada-U.S. border, Canada-U.S. trade, border security,