Op-Ed: Ottawa-Gatineau Poised for a New Era of Seamless Cross-Border Business
The Ottawa Board of Trade and the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce applaud the federal government’s landmark decision to remove federal barriers to interprovincial trade. This bold step is a game-changer for our region, setting the stage for even closer economic integration and unlocking new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Ottawa River.
For years, our local business community has led the charge in advocating for a more seamless economic environment. Thanks to ongoing collaboration between Ontario and Quebec, we have already seen remarkable progress in harmonizing regulations and recognizing professional credentials. With the federal government now acting decisively, the momentum is unstoppable.
The removal of federal barriers, combined with continued provincial harmonization, will make a real difference for Ottawa-Gatineau businesses. Here’s what this means in practice:
Expanded Market Access: Businesses will be able to reach new customers and partners across provincial lines with fewer bureaucratic hurdles, opening up fresh avenues for growth and collaboration.
Simplified Supply Chains: Organizations will benefit from streamlined processes when sourcing goods and services from across the river, leading to greater efficiency and reduced operational costs.
Greater Workforce Mobility: Professionals will find it easier to work throughout the Ottawa-Gatineau region, as credentials and qualifications are more readily recognized, supporting a more dynamic and flexible labour market.
Lower Costs for Consumers: With improved business efficiency and reduced regulatory duplication, consumers can expect increased choice and more competitive pricing for products and services throughout the region.
Ontario and Quebec have both made significant strides in harmonizing regulations and reducing barriers to trade. Their efforts have already delivered real benefits for our region, and today’s federal action could amplify these gains. By working together, our governments are sending a clear message: Ottawa-Gatineau is one economic region, and our businesses deserve every opportunity to succeed.
The Ottawa Board of Trade and the Gatineau Chamber of Commerce are proud to support our members as they seize these new opportunities. We will continue to advocate for further harmonization and the removal of any remaining barriers, ensuring that our region remains a model for cross-border cooperation and economic success.
Today, we celebrate a new chapter for Ottawa-Gatineau. The decision to remove federal barriers is a powerful signal of our collective commitment to growth, innovation, and shared prosperity. We congratulate the federal government for its leadership and look forward to working with all partners to build a brighter, more connected future for our region.
Sueling Ching, President and CEO – Ottawa Board of Trade
Étienne Fredette, Director General – Gatineau Chamber of Commerce