In response to the threat of American tariffs, we are doing our part at the City of Toronto to take action and protect our economy as part of the overall “Team Canada” approach. In March, City Council passed a comprehensive plan to mitigate the impact of a potential trade war on Toronto businesses, workers, and residents.
The Mayor’s Economic Action Plan in Response to US Tariffs was developed by an Economic Action Team comprising industry, business, and labour leaders, The actions include, but are not limited to:
- -Prioritizing Canadian suppliers in the City’s procurement process;
- -Partnering with regional municipalities and the Province to reduce reliance on American-based suppliers;
- -Expanding global markets for Toronto businesses through industry and export development partnerships;
- -Collaborating with industry, workers, and training partners to encourage the adoption of new technology to increase competitiveness;
- -Providing dedicated supports for Toronto’s manufacturing and industrial sector;
- -Deferring property taxes on industrial properties to provide cashflow relief; and
- -Launching the new Love Local campaign.
The Love Local campaign encourages Torontonians to purchase Canadian-made goods and support local businesses. My office was provided with “Love Local” decals for businesses to display to engage customers and encourage community-wide participation. If you are a local small business that would like a decal, please contact my office at councillor_chernoslin@toronto.ca.
In Ward 15, we are lucky to have four distinct Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) that showcase amazing Canadian-owned small businesses, including the Bayview Leaside BIA. Our city has incredible resilience, and when we work together to buy local, our dollars stay in the local economy, create jobs, and support vibrant main streets. I am keeping a close eye on developments in this rapidly changing trade landscape and will be working with my colleagues on our City’s evolving response.
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