Canada Secures Subway Train Contract Amid US Tariffs

As of August 19th, 2025, the Government of Canada, the Province of Ontario, and the City of Toronto have authorized the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to seek a single-source contract with Alstom Transport Canada for new Line 2 subway trains. This decision comes as a strategic response to ongoing US tariffs and economic uncertainties, aiming to bolster Canadian employment and ensure the delivery of reliable trains for Toronto commuters.

The previous competitive bidding process for these trains has been terminated, and all contenders have been duly informed. Alstom's contract stipulates adherence to the TTC's original requirements, the maximization of Canadian content and job creation, and pricing that will be verified by an independent third-party to reflect fair market value.

TTC CEO Mandeep S. Lali expressed gratitude for the funding partners' support, stating that the intention is to maximize Canadian content and support Canadian jobs through negotiations with Alstom. The procurement includes an initial order of 70 six-car train sets, of which 55 will replace the aging fleet on Line 2, while the remaining 15 will service the Yonge North and Scarborough extensions, with provisions for additional trains subject to future funding and Alstom's performance.

Ontario's Minister of Transportation, Prabmeet Sarkaria, emphasized the government's pride in protecting Ontario workers and businesses by ensuring the TTC's Line 2 subway trains will be manufactured in Ontario. This decision has been welcomed by Unifor, the Canadian private sector union, as it secures positions for workers of Unifor Local 1075 at Alstom's Thunder Bay facility.