On February 23, 2026, Germany’s Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche and Canada’s Minister of Industry Mélanie Joly signed a joint declaration to deepen cooperation in the automotive and mobility sectors. The agreement, concluded between Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy and Canada’s Department of Industry, emphasizes the strategic importance of these industries for economic security, resilience and growth in both nations.
Under the terms of the declaration, both countries will work to strengthen their industrial bases, diversify and stabilize supply chains, and accelerate the adoption of zero- and low-emission vehicles. German automotive companies already support around 15,000 high-quality jobs in Canada through their local subsidiaries. The new framework aims to build on this foundation and foster further investment across North America and Europe.
Minister Reiche highlighted the need to “pool strengths, secure supply chains and foster future technologies,” noting that current geopolitical challenges require a coordinated response. She described the pact as a clear signal of commitment to economic security, technological sovereignty and new growth drivers on both sides of the Atlantic.
Minister Joly characterized Canada as “a proud auto nation with world-class workers, cutting-edge innovation and some of the best vehicles in the world.” She said the declaration will accelerate collaboration on battery technologies and critical raw materials, support partnerships in electric and hydrogen mobility, and spur major investments in communities across Canada. The agreement is intended to drive growth and modernization in Canada’s automotive industry, create quality jobs nationwide and reinforce the country’s leadership in next-generation vehicle production.
Key elements of the declaration include expanding industrial cooperation through shared analysis of sectoral developments, increasing bilateral automotive trade and promoting joint initiatives in battery and hydrogen mobility. The two governments will also intensify dialogue among businesses, research institutions and industry associations by establishing a joint cooperation group on automotive and mobility.
By signing this declaration, Germany and Canada reaffirm their intention to address shared geopolitical challenges and strengthen long-term economic collaboration in critical future industries.
Source: Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Energie (in German)
