Lana Payne, the National President of Unifor, Canada's largest private-sector union, has issued a stark warning about the economic year ahead. In a recent interview with BNN Bloomberg, Payne highlighted that tariffs are set to weigh heavily on the nation's workers throughout 2026. The discussion served as both a recap of the union's activities in 2025 and a forecast of the challenges looming on the horizon.
A Recap of 2025 and the Tariff Challenge
During her year-end interview, Payne reflected on the struggles and achievements of Canadian workers over the past twelve months. However, the conversation quickly turned toward future pressures. The Unifor leader emphasized that external trade policies and imposed tariffs are creating a precarious economic environment. These financial burdens, she argued, are ultimately passed down to employees and consumers, threatening job security and purchasing power.
Payne's analysis points to a direct link between international trade disputes, the cost of living, and workplace stability. She stressed that while corporations may navigate these waters, the frontline workers often bear the brunt of increased costs and market instability. This outlook forms a central part of Unifor's advocacy and bargaining strategy for the coming year.
The 2026 Outlook for Canadian Labour
Looking ahead to 2026, the Unifor president outlined a proactive agenda focused on protecting members from these economic headwinds. The union's priorities will include:
- Negotiating strong collective agreements that account for inflationary pressures exacerbated by tariffs.
- Lobbying the federal government to consider the impact of trade policies on domestic labour.
- Educating and mobilizing members around economic issues that affect their livelihoods.
Payne made it clear that the union will not be a passive observer. Instead, Unifor plans to be at the forefront, demanding policies that shield workers from the negative consequences of global economic shifts. The interview underscored a determination to fight for fair wages and stable employment despite the challenging forecast.
Broader Economic Context and Union Response
The warning from Unifor's leadership arrives amid broader national conversations about affordability and economic resilience. Payne's comments add a critical labour perspective to the debate, reminding policymakers and the public that trade and tariff decisions have real human consequences.
As Canada's economy continues to integrate globally, the role of unions in advocating for worker protections becomes increasingly vital. Payne's interview on BNN Bloomberg, published on December 19, 2025, serves as an early marker for the key issues that will dominate the labour movement in the new year. The message is unequivocal: 2026 will be a year where defending the interests of Canadian workers against external economic pressures is paramount.
