“The breakdown in Canada-U.S. trade negotiations marks a serious moment for Canadian businesses, workers and communities.
Decisions are being made right now about investment, hiring, supply chains, pricing and growth. We need to be clear about the challenges we face and focused on the actions required to address them.
Any agreement with the United States must protect Canada’s sovereignty, strategic interests and long-term economic strength. Any Canadian response should be targeted, measured and informed by those most affected.
At the same time, we must move decisively on what we can control.
That means strengthening Canada’s economy by removing barriers to growth, opening new markets, attracting investment, supporting Canadian companies to scale and investing in infrastructure, talent, innovation and high-potential sectors.
This is shared work. Governments, business leaders, consumers, post-secondary institutions and community partners all have a role to play.
The Ottawa Board of Trade is working closely with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Global Cities Council to ensure the voice of our businesses is heard in national discussions.
In the National Capital Region, we must turn national resolve into regional progress by strengthening partnerships, supporting local businesses and investing in the assets that will drive our future.
We acknowledge that the road ahead will be more difficult for some businesses and sectors, while staying united around our shared commitment to Canada’s long-term economic strength.
Together, we will protect what we have built, invest in what comes next, and grow a stronger capital region and a stronger Canada.”
– Sueling Ching, President and CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade