York Region addressing and analyzing tariff implications

Newmarket – The Regional Municipality of York is working to keep the local economy strong, continue supporting businesses and ensure long-term prosperity of communities amid ongoing response to tariffs.

“The tariffs imposed on Canadian exports negatively impact our economy and the residents and businesses that call York Region home,” said York Region Chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe. “Economic vitality remains a strategic priority for York Regional Council and we will continue advancing work through these uncertain times, strengthening our local economy and supporting businesses close to home.”

York Region’s response to tariff implications includes actions in the following areas:

• Research and Analysis: Ongoing research and data collection to understand impacts of tariffs on the economy and businesses and develop targeted actions
• Business Advisory and Support: Collaboration with economic development stakeholders, including local cities and towns, York Small Business Enterprise Centre, Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, academic and innovation partners to provide business advisory consultation, expert workshops, trade diversification activities and other business supports
• Business Communications: Provide up-to-date information and resources to impacted businesses, including outreach through York Link digital channels

The Business Recovery Support Partnership has been reestablished to provide open dialogue among York Region’s Economic Development offices, Chambers of Commerce and other key stakeholders. This partnership group, first established during the COVID-19 pandemic, continues to share information and support collaborative tariff-focused initiatives while ensuring consistent communication to the business community.

“York Region has a vibrant economy with unique businesses and passionate residents looking for ways to support,” said Township of King Mayor Steve Pellegrini, Chair of Finance and Administration. “The tariff implications are ever-changing, and Regional Council is monitoring the situation while keeping our 57,000 businesses at the forefront.”

As Ontario’s third largest manufacturing hub, and fifth largest in Canada, the tariff conflict has potential impacts for many of the 2,900 exporters and 9,000 importers across several manufacturing industries in York Region, with 12% of total jobs in companies identifying as exporters.

Other levels of government, including York Region, have introduced procurement amendments to support the Canadian economy. The economic landscape will continue to be monitored as circumstances evolve.

For more information on local business supports and resources, supporting the local economy and navigating the economic impacts in response to tariffs, visit york.ca/Tariffs

The Regional Municipality of York consists of nine local cities and towns and provides a variety of programs and services to over 1.25 million residents and 57,000 businesses with more than 629,000 employees. More information about the Region’s key service areas is available at york.ca/RegionalServices

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Media Contact:

Stephanie Crowley, Corporate Communications,
The Regional Municipality of York
Phone: 289-763-2598,
Email: @email