Mayor Olivia Chow leads charge to protect jobs, prioritize Canadian goods, and build economic resilience.
In response to escalating U.S. tariffs, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow has announced a comprehensive action plan to safeguard the city’s economy and protect local jobs. The plan includes a review of the city’s procurement policies and a bold “Buy-Canadian” initiative to prioritize local goods and services.
“Everything is on the table,” Mayor Chow declared at a press conference on Monday. “With a $78-billion budget, every dollar we spend matters. Whether it’s food for our kids’ programs, shelters, or child-care centres, we have the power to create local jobs and strengthen our economy by choosing Canadian.”
The U.S. tariffs, which include a 10% duty on energy and a 25% duty on other goods, took effect on Tuesday. In response, Mayor Chow has directed city staff to collaborate with federal and provincial governments to mitigate the impact on Toronto’s economy. She has also convened a task force of major employers and labour leaders to provide guidance on protecting vulnerable sectors.
“We will not let this senseless trade war jeopardize our efforts to build a more affordable, safer, and prosperous Toronto,” Chow emphasized. “Our city’s future is built on a strong, diversified foundation that creates good jobs and long-term resilience. We will act decisively to protect our communities during these challenging economic times.”
The “Buy-Canadian” initiative is a cornerstone of the city’s strategy, encouraging residents and businesses to support local products and services. However, experts warn that identifying truly Canadian products can be challenging due to complex labeling and supply chains.
“It’s extremely tricky to buy Canadian,” said Mike von Massow, a food economist at the University of Guelph. “Consumers will need to do their research and make tough choices, especially when it comes to products like fresh produce that may not be available locally year-round.”
Despite these challenges, Mayor Chow remains steadfast in her commitment to fostering local economic growth. “Toronto’s strength lies in its people and its diversity,” she said. “Together, we will navigate these uncertain times and emerge stronger than ever.”