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Canadian Government, Automotive Industry Discuss Trade, Strengthen Ties

Michigan’s trade relationship with Canada is closely tied to the automotive industry. Building on this collaboration, MichAuto and the Detroit Regional Chamber hosted a private lunch with Jay Allen, Economic Minister at the Canadian Embassy, and Colin Bird, Consul General of Canada in Detroit, to discuss U.S.-Canada trade, specifically regarding upcoming U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement renegotiations.

Joined by leaders from the American automotive and related industries, the conversation highlighted the economic interdependence and priorities between the U.S. and Canada, and emphasized the need to strengthen future cross-border cooperation.

Learn More About U.S.-Canada Trade

Driving the Industry Forward With Macomb County

Together, MichAuto and MichAuto investor Macomb County convened a dynamic roundtable during the 2026 Detroit Auto Show to tackle the forces of change shaping the industry.

The conversation highlighted Michigan’s unique assets, Macomb County’s pivotal role at the crossroads of industry and innovation, and the powerful collaboration driving progress between MichAuto and Macomb County.

‘Detroit is Home’ for Tech Innovation and Investment From left to right: Glenn Stevens Jr., André Gudger Eccalon’s move to Detroit is already making an impact, driving “22nd-century” innovation, developing local talent, and strengthening the community. Eccalon’s André Gudger, in conversation with MichAuto’s Executive Director, Glenn Stevens Jr., explained how Detroit’s people, partnerships, and purpose make it the perfect foundation for Eccalon’s vision and investment in the city’s future. Read the Recap   Continued Impact Driving Innovation From the Motor City From left to right: KC Crain, Duncan Aldred General Motors, a MichAuto investor, has deep roots in Detroit and has been pivotal to both the city’s identity and the company’s success, fueling innovation, collaboration, and the development of local talent. GM’s Duncan Aldred emphasized that it is the resilience and ambition of Detroit’s people that drive GM’s ability to lead and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. Read the Recap Register Now: Automotive Happy Hour March 11, 4-6 p.m.   Don’t miss the opportunity to network with automotive and mobility industry leaders at a complimentary reception on March 11, 4-6 p.m., at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP in Grand Rapids. MichAuto is excited to partner with Plante Moran and Warner Norcross + Judd LLP for the reception, which takes place the night before the Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium. Register Now Saginaw’s Increasing Role in Innovation and Regional Collaboration Pictured: Glenn Stevens Jr. Automotive and mobility innovation took center stage at MichAuto investor Nexteer Automotive’s Global Leadership Conference. MichAuto’s Glenn Stevens Jr. delivered a presentation emphasizing Michigan’s signature industry assets, Saginaw’s increasing role in innovation, and the regional collaboration driving progress as the industry rapidly evolves.   Making an Impact Across the Entire State of Michigan From left to right: Kyle Melinn, Mike Duggan To ensure Northern Michigan’s workforce, infrastructure, and industry needs are included in Michigan’s statewide mobility and economic strategy, MichAuto’s Glenn Stevens Jr. attended the Northern Michigan Policy Conference. During the program, gubernatorial candidates, including Chamber PAC-endorsed Mike Duggan, discussed strategies to advance policy and position Northern Michigan as a destination for living, working, and investment.