Around 9,000 workers at Canada’s two major railways could strike as early as Thursday, creating significant concerns for the food industry and trade.
The union representing workers at Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. issued a 72-hour strike notice on August 18. CN Rail reported that despite ongoing negotiations over the weekend, no meaningful progress has been made.
The potential strike could severely disrupt the supply chain for fertilizers and perishable goods, with fertilizers to farmers already halted and the supply of frozen and perishable items now compromised. The impact is expected to be felt across the food industry, with shelves at risk of being emptied.
The strike would also have broader implications for trade, particularly with the United States. Approximately 95% of Canada’s grain is transported by rail, making it the most cost-effective transportation method.
Dalhousie University professor [Name] noted that each day of the strike could lead to a week of recovery time for the rail system.
CN Rail has warned that it will lock out workers if an agreement is not reached, further escalating the situation.
