US-Canada May Partially Close Border... "Ban on Non-Essential Travel Except Trade"

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] On the 17th (local time), Canadian media Globe and Mail reported that the United States and Canada are expected to close part of their border to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

Globe and Mail cited sources saying that the US and Canadian governments are scheduled to announce an agreement on the 18th to ban all movement except essential exchanges such as trade for the time being.

According to the report, an anonymous official stated that exchanges of medical supplies, food, and other goods, as well as trade and commercial exchanges including automobile parts, will be excluded from the movement ban. The Associated Press also reported that truck drivers residing in the US or refugees who moved to the US to escape the cold will be exceptions to the movement restrictions.

The US and Canada are countries with significant mutual exchanges in terms of trade. Canada exports 75% of its total exports to the US. Accordingly, CNN explained that this measure between the two countries is based on mutual agreement, unlike the travel restrictions on Europe and China previously unilaterally announced by the US.

The day before, President Donald Trump said at a press briefing of the COVID-19 response task force held at the White House, when asked if they were considering closing the border, "I don't want to say that," and added, "We are consulting with Canada and Mexico, and our relationships with both countries are excellent." Canada announced on the 16th that it would ban entry of foreigners except US citizens.