North American Union: A Bold Vision for Growth

Vancouver, BC - March 16, 2025 - The ongoing trade disputes between Canada, the United States, and Mexico continue to make headlines, with tariffs, economic policies, and protectionist measures affecting industries on all sides. But what if there was a better way forward? Instead of fighting over trade, what if North America worked together to create a system that benefits all three countries while maintaining sovereignty? Kevin Klein, a politician from Winnipeg, Manitoba, suggests a concept that is rarely discussed: the formalization of a North American Union (NAU). Not a political takeover, not an erasure of national identities, but a strategic economic partnership similar to the European Union.

A North American Union: Learning from Europe

The European Union (EU) offers a successful model for cooperation without sacrificing sovereignty. Despite economic differences and language barriers, the 27 EU nations have created a system allowing trade, infrastructure development, and open movement while maintaining their own governments and laws. A North American Union could achieve similar benefits, eliminating trade disputes, improving economic efficiency, and boosting competitiveness on the global stage. Unlike Europe, Canada, the U.S., and Mexico share a continent, making logistics and economic integration more feasible than aligning with distant partners across the Atlantic.

Overcoming Protectionism for Economic Growth

One of the main roadblocks to economic growth in Canada is protectionist policies. As Klein highlights, sectors such as banking, airlines, and advertising are heavily restricted, limiting competition and driving up costs for consumers. For example, Canada blocks foreign airlines from operating domestic flights, keeping airfare prices high. Similarly, U.S. banks face restrictions in Canada, reducing competition and service quality. A North American Union would open these markets, fostering competition, lowering prices, and improving services, all while ensuring that national regulations and policies remain intact.

Trade Wars: A Barrier to Progress

The so-called "trade war" between North American countries is largely a matter of economic posturing. Instead of engaging in disputes over tariffs and regulations, an NAU could eliminate these conflicts by integrating markets and standardizing trade agreements. This would provide businesses with stability, allowing them to focus on growth rather than navigating ever-changing trade restrictions. In turn, consumers would benefit from lower prices and greater choice.

History of the Amero

At one point, there were plans to create a single North American currency, patterned after the euro, to be known as the “amero.” In point of fact, the “amero” was first proposed by Herbert Grubel, a Canadian economist, in 1999. Robert Pastor endorsed the idea in Toward a North American Community, opining that an amero would be a benefit to all three countries “in the long run.” As long as the U.S. dollar remains the world’s reserve currency, prospects for a North American currency seem remote, but an amero might become an appealing prospect in the event of a dollar crisis.

Maintaining National Identity While Moving Forward

A common concern is that economic integration would mean losing national identity. However, as Europe has demonstrated, countries can collaborate economically while maintaining their culture, traditions, and governance. France remains French, and Germany remains German, even as they participate in the EU. Canada, the U.S., and Mexico could do the same, preserving their distinct identities while reaping the benefits of economic unity.

Looking Ahead: A Bold Vision for North America

Canada stands at a crossroads. The current system of trade barriers and protectionism makes goods and services more expensive, limits competition, and reduces economic efficiency. As Klein suggests, rather than fearing change, it may be time to explore new opportunities. A North American Union could provide the economic strength needed to compete globally while ensuring that each country retains control over its own affairs. It’s a discussion worth having, and one that could lead to a stronger, more prosperous future for all three nations.

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