Advocacy in action

Building momentum for Canada’s automotive aftermarket

This past summer was an active one for automotive aftermarket advocacy in Canada. Across Right to Repair, workforce development, trade and tariffs, AIA Canada has been working with governments, policymakers, industry partners and members to ensure the priorities of Canada’s automotive aftermarket remain part of the national conversation.

While these issues are distinct, they are closely connected. Together, they shape the environment in which aftermarket businesses compete, invest, hire and serve Canadian drivers.

Right to Repair remains one of AIA Canada’s most significant advocacy priorities, and this past summer brought progress on several fronts.

Federally, AIA Canada continues to pursue multiple legislative pathways. We are advocating for motor vehicles to be included in Bill C-267 while also exploring opportunities through Bill C-36 and advancing the idea that vehicle-generated data should be included in the future data-mobility framework, allowing vehicle owners to direct relevant repair and maintenance data to the service provider of their choice. We were also invited to appear before the House of Commons Finance Committee as part of its pre-budget consultations, bringing the aftermarket’s priorities directly to federal decision-makers.

Progress is also being made provincially. Manitoba’s Bill 15 received royal assent in June following more than 18 months of advocacy by AIA Canada and its members. Regulations will now be developed sector by sector, with automotive expected to follow home appliances.

Beyond legislation, much of our work this summer focused on building understanding. AIA Canada participated in the CanRepair Convention in Halifax and organized visits that brought Members of Parliament directly into repair and collision facilities. These conversations give policymakers a clearer view of how access to repair information, tools and vehicle data affects businesses, consumers and communities.

Workforce development has been another major focus. The federal government’s $6-billion skilled trades investment could create significant opportunities for automotive service technicians and collision repairers, both designated Red Seal trades. AIA Canada will continue advocating for the sector to be fully considered as these supports are developed.

We are also seeing the impact of targeted investment. AIA Canada recently secured $3 million through Ontario’s Skills Development Fund to continue its Innovation in Automotive Training program. Delivered with colleges and industry partners, the program provides free, hands-on training in areas including EVs and ADAS and has already reached more than 740 participants.

Trade policy has also moved quickly. New retaliatory tariffs that took effect in September affect several products used throughout the aftermarket, while higher tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum create additional pressure for manufacturers and distributors. AIA Canada continues to engage with government and is encouraging members to share how these measures are affecting their businesses.

Advocacy is rarely defined by one meeting, bill or announcement. It is built through sustained engagement, strong evidence and relationships developed over time.

This summer, each conversation, visit and policy milestone has helped strengthen the aftermarket’s voice and advance the conditions needed for a competitive and resilient industry. To learn more and to get involved, visit righttorepair.ca.