Dear Federal Candidates:

This election is pivotal for Canada, coming at a time of great uncertainty. In recent years, high inflation, low productivity, labour challenges and unreliable supply chains have undermined our economic potential. The current ongoing tensions with the U.S. have created a volatile environment. Our strong public programs—healthcare, retirement benefits, and a robust military—depend on a thriving business sector and tax revenue from Canadian individuals and businesses.

The livelihoods of businesses and families in Thunder Bay and across the country hinge on how we navigate this crisis with the U.S., address our economic challenges, and support Canadian businesses. Canada needs a united strategy to reduce dependence on U.S. trade and build a resilient, future-ready economy where all Canadians can thrive and look forward to a brighter future. The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce stands united with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in calling for all federal parties and local candidates to champion policies that drive economic growth for our city and region by:
• Working with provinces to introduce targeted programs that help businesses hit hardest by tariffs to invest in capacity, innovate and adapt
• Identifying and removing barriers to interprovincial trade and labour mobility
• Modernize and streamline the federal tax framework to stimulate business investment and support growth
• Undertake a spending review to enhance economic efficiencies
• Aligning federal programs, including the Immigration Levels Plan and the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, with regional labour market needs
• Recognizing foreign credentials, especially in sectors where there is a shortage of qualified Canadians
• Streamlining regulatory approval processes for mining and energy projects to meet growing demand for Canadian resources
• Expanding our roads, rail, airports, port infrastructure and new pipelines — all made with Canadian steel — in order to transport our goods and resources safely and efficiently across our country and to external markets

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to further discuss the challenges and opportunities facing our business community. Please let me know of your availability for a discussion.

Sincerely,

Charla Robinson, President