Canadian access to U.S. markets continues to be a leading priority for business leaders, as documented by COMPAS polls over the past two years. CEOs and other business leaders are very concerned about rising U.S. protectionism, believing that this challenge should receive the highest priority consideration of the federal government. Softwood lumber is unchanged as the most serious trade and access to market issue, while beef emerges as a strong second. In terms of repairing relations with the U.S., business leaders believe that if Canada invested more in domestic anti-terrorism security and more carefully monitored visitors and immigrants that it would have the most positive impact on our relationship with our southern neighbour.

These are key findings from this week’s National Post/COMPAS survey sponsored by BDO Dunwoody and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

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