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Former US President Donald Trump has warned he may block the opening of the Windsor Detroit bridge unless the United States gains partial ownership. As a result, trade experts say the move could hurt businesses and consumers on both sides of the border.
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is expected to open later this year. It was designed to ease traffic at the Ambassador Bridge, which remains one of the busiest trade crossings in North America.
Ownership Demand Raises Concerns
According to Trump, Canada controls both sides of the bridge and funded its construction. Because of this, he argued that the United States should receive compensation before allowing the bridge to open.
Specifically, Trump said the US deserves at least a 50 percent ownership stake. In his view, the project offers little benefit to American interests without shared control.
Experts Warn of Trade Disruption
However, supply chain experts caution that blocking the bridge would disrupt cross border trade. In turn, manufacturers could face delays and higher costs.
Each day, hundreds of millions of dollars in goods cross the Ambassador Bridge. Most of this trade supports the automotive sector, which depends on fast and reliable border access.
For that reason, experts see the new bridge as a critical upgrade. It would also reduce pressure on aging infrastructure that has served the region for decades.
Dairy and Alcohol Trade Also Targeted
In addition, Trump criticized Canada’s dairy supply system. He said tariffs on US dairy products unfairly affect American farmers.
At the same time, he pointed to decisions by some Canadian provinces to remove US alcohol from store shelves. These actions, he said, reflect broader trade tensions.
Trump also warned Canada against strengthening trade ties with China. As a result, uncertainty has grown ahead of scheduled trade agreement reviews.
Business Groups Urge Cooperation
Meanwhile, business leaders in both countries called for cooperation rather than confrontation. They described the bridge as a shared economic asset.
Moreover, chambers of commerce stressed that modern border infrastructure supports jobs and long term growth. They urged leaders to resolve disputes through formal trade talks.
Auto Industry Downplays Immediate Impact
For now, automotive industry leaders say the bridge has not opened, limiting any immediate impact. Therefore, concerns remain largely theoretical.
They also noted that policy positions can change quickly. Many expect further developments before the bridge opens.
Bridge Seen as Vital to Regional Growth
Overall, officials in Canada and Michigan see the bridge as a major economic project. It supports jobs, trade security and regional growth.
Notably, Canada financed the bridge, while union workers from both countries built it. Because of this cooperation, business groups remain confident the project will move forward.
