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The Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP) plans to challenge the Ford administration regarding its commitment to collaboration on U.S. tariffs. They are introducing a motion aimed at assisting consumers in determining whether products are locally manufactured or merely repackaged after crossing the border.
During an opposition day session on Wednesday, the NDP will advocate for a labeling initiative. They hope this strategy will promote “Made in Ontario” and “Made in Canada” labels, thereby encouraging local shopping during ongoing trade tensions, rather than boosting grocery chains’ profit margins.
“Our proposal is straightforward: we will mandate large grocery retailers, such as Loblaws and Sobeys, to distinctly label whether a product is made in Ontario or imported from the U.S. This way, consumers can choose local products and contribute to the Ontario economy,” stated Marit Stiles, the leader of the Ontario NDP.
The motion also aims to require grocery stores to transparently indicate when prices have surged significantly.
Premier Doug Ford previously indicated a willingness to engage with opposition parties over tariff concerns. Yet, as the legislative session progresses, he has dismissed the notion of a bipartisan working group on tariffs and provided scant opportunities for the NDP, Liberals, or Greens to influence tariff-related decisions meaningfully.
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Government House Leader Steve Clark announced that Minister of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement Stephen Crawford will address the NDP’s motion on Wednesday, although he refrained from disclosing whether the government supports it. The premier’s office has also not definitively answered inquiries about backing the NDP proposal.
“Our government is committed to easing consumers’ ability to support local businesses by dismantling interprovincial trade barriers,” remarked a spokesperson for the premier, alluding to legislative efforts aimed at designating a specific day for promoting Ontario-made goods.
They also mentioned ongoing encouragement for grocery chains to clarify product labels and are “exploring modifications” to ensure transparency regarding which items are produced in Ontario.
Stiles has called on Ford to endorse her party’s motion, emphasizing, “The reckless tariffs from Donald Trump and his threats to our sovereignty are serious issues. Canadians are reevaluating their spending habits to prioritize support for local businesses.”
“This is an opportunity for Premier Ford to affirm his commitment to helping consumers choose Ontario-made products. Let’s empower families to make informed decisions, keep more of their money in their pockets, and effectively counter Trump’s tariffs.”
Historically, opposition day motions tend to be more symbolic in nature, as they require government approval to be enacted.
Source
globalnews.ca