Karandeep-BRAMPTON, ON – In a major announcement today, the City of Brampton revealed its new 'Made in Canada' procurement policy, signaling a firm commitment to support Canadian businesses amid the potential threat of U.S. tariffs. The move could have far-reaching implications across the country, as Brampton sets an example for other municipalities to follow.
Mayor Patrick Brown addressed the importance of the policy, stating, "Brampton stands firmly in support of Canadian businesses. If the U.S. imposes tariffs that harm our economy, we must take action. Our 'Made in Canada' procurement policy ensures we prioritize Canadian companies, invest in our local economy, and encourage other municipalities to do the same."
The new policy will see the City of Brampton reviewing all current contracts with U.S.-owned companies and their subsidiaries to explore legal avenues for exiting these agreements. In addition, an update to Brampton’s Purchasing Bylaw will prohibit U.S.-owned companies from participating in future City procurements for the duration of these potential tariffs.
Gurpartap Singh Toor, Regional Councillor and Chair of Economic Development, emphasized the city's leadership role: “Brampton is taking a leadership role in defending Canadian businesses and workers. By reviewing our contracts and implementing a procurement ban on U.S.-owned companies during these tariffs, we are sending a strong message: our economy comes first."
This policy is part of a broader initiative launched by the City of Brampton to encourage municipalities across Canada to adopt a similar approach. Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor and Vice-Chair of Economic Development, noted, "In January, Brampton was the first city to explore this ‘Made in Canada’ procurement policy. Now, we're calling on cities across the country to do the same. We want municipalities everywhere to sign our ‘We Are Team Canada’ petition."
The impact of this initiative could be significant, with municipalities across Canada collectively procuring over $30 billion worth of goods and services every year. The primary goal of the policy is to protect Canadian jobs, support local businesses, and unite the country in facing global economic challenges.
Paul Vicente, Regional Councillor and Board Member of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), expressed support for the policy, saying, "This is an opportunity to strengthen our local industries and build new business relationships. We’re taking this important stance to ensure that Canadian businesses thrive, no matter the challenges ahead."
As Brampton leads the charge, the city is urging other municipalities to take a stand for their local economies and join the movement to support Canadian businesses. The City of Brampton is calling on residents and businesses across the nation to visit bramptonforcanada.ca and pledge their support to this critical cause.
With this new policy, Brampton aims to not only protect its economy but to build a stronger, more resilient Canada where local businesses and workers take the lead in shaping the country's future.
To learn more and join the movement, visit bramptonforcanada.ca.