History
E.H. Storms, Nerlich & Company
I.E.Canada was formed in the aftermath of World War I by Canadian importers facing difficulties from fluctuations of German exchange rates, high tariff barriers and protectionism worldwide. Throughout the 1920s, the Association made numerous representations to government, primarily regarding the German situation. With the situation successfully resolved, the Association was disbanded after three years.
In 1931, facing high duty rates and embargoes on international trading, Canadian importers decided to reactivate the Association. The Canadian Importers and Traders Association was formed at a public meeting, in June 1932, at the King Edward Hotel in Toronto. E.H. Storms, Nerlich & Company, was the first President of I.E.Canada, known then as the Canadian Importers and Traders Association. He was President from 1932-1934. The Association's first successful action occurred in 1932, when the group sought a reduction in the fixed value of the Pound Sterling from $4.40 to $4.25 for customs purposes. In 1935, the Association was credited by Prime Minister Bennett as being largely responsible for bringing about a Tariff Board Review of the automotive industry.