Canada-U.S. Border to Remain Closed to Non-Essential Travel Until June 21

Strategic Insights -

The Canada-U.S. border is set to stay closed to non-essential travel until June 21 as a precautionary measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This decision follows the first restriction on non-essential travel, which was implemented on March 21 for a 30-day period. The closure was extended until May 21, and sources indicate that it will be extended again for another month. Canada has asked for a 30-day extension, and it is likely that the U.S. will agree to the proposal.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Canada-U.S. border will remain closed to non-essential travel until June 21, with the possibility of an extension.
  • Non-essential travel was first restricted on March 21 for a 30-day period, and was extended until May 21.
  • Canada has asked for a 30-day extension, and it is likely that the U.S. will agree to the proposal.
  • The decision to extend the border closure was made to safeguard citizens in both countries from the spread of COVID-19.
  • Provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia have expressed opposition to reopening the border until health authorities give the all-clear.
  • Essential travel, including truck and rail traffic carrying food and goods, is not affected by the border closure.
  • Flights between both countries continue to operate.
  • The Canadian government is taking a cautious approach to reopening the border, prioritizing the health and safety of Canadians.
  • The Business Council of Canada supports an extension of the border controls, citing the success of the current restrictions in preventing the spread of the virus.

Statistics:

  • The Canada-U.S. border has been closed to non-essential travel for 60 days (March 21 to May 21) with an additional 30 days extension.
  • The current closure is reported to be extended for another month until June 21.
  • 327 deaths have been reported in the state of Michigan, surpassing the number of deaths in the entire province of Ontario.
  • The city of Detroit has a higher per capita infection rate than the rest of the province of Ontario.
  • The border communities of Sarnia and Windsor have a higher per capita infection rate than the rest of the province.

Sources:

  • "Canada-U.S. border set to stay closed to non-essential travel", sources with knowledge of bilateral talks, name redacted.
  • "Canada-U.S. border talks: sources say Canada has asked for a 30-day extension", Texte/Text, name redacted.
  • The Globe and Mail, "Canada-U.S. border set to stay closed to non-essential travel", Kristy Kirkup, 2020.