Ontario’s response to the escalating trade war with the United States is a key focus in the upcoming legislative sitting following Premier Doug Ford’s victory in the snap February election. Ford plans to address his government’s priorities in a throne speech delivered by the lieutenant-governor, and the Progressive Conservative government is expected to introduce legislation aimed at opening up interprovincial trade to combat the effects of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods. Ford aims to reduce protectionist barriers within Canada and streamline trade between provinces and territories, while also targeting red tape to expedite the approval and construction of large mining and energy projects.
In response to Trump’s tariffs, Ford has emphasized the importance of mining critical minerals in northern Ontario. He has proposed selling more critical minerals to the United States, but also recognizes the need to diversify the province’s customer base. Ford has expressed frustration with the lengthy permitting process for mining projects, and is determined to expedite the extraction, refining, and distribution of critical minerals to global markets. The province is expected to focus on mining the Ring of Fire region, which is rich in critical minerals, although it may face opposition from some First Nations in the area.
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston is expected to join the Ontario government in introducing legislation to reduce interprovincial trade barriers, following similar efforts by Houston in February. Ford has been actively lobbying other premiers to support efforts to open up trade between provinces, citing potential economic growth and the ability to offset the impact of tariffs. The province is also planning to create “priority economic zones” to fast track projects that are vital to Ontario’s economy, energy independence, and national security, such as those in the Ring of Fire region. The opposition is focused on advocating for income support and emergency funding for trade-exposed industries to protect jobs and workers during this challenging time.
As the legislature reconvenes, the New Democrat Leader Marit Stiles emphasizes the urgency of addressing the impacts of the trade war and focusing on supporting Ontarians, stimulating economic growth, and building resilience. Stiles calls for real income support and emergency funding for industries affected by the tariffs to ensure the stability and support needed for individuals and businesses to weather the storm and emerge stronger. The legislative session will likely include robust debates and negotiations on policies and measures to mitigate the effects of the trade war, protect jobs, and promote economic growth in Ontario. Premier Ford’s leadership and response to the trade war will be closely scrutinized by both his political opponents and the public.
