Premier Doug Ford Advocates ‘Buy Ontario’ Strategy Amid Looming U.S. Tariffs
Ontario Premier proposes domestic procurement measures in response to impending U.S. trade actions.
TORONTO – On March 3, 2025, at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) convention, Ontario Premier Doug Ford addressed attendees, focusing on the province’s economic resilience in light of anticipated U.S. tariffs.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford proposes ‘Buy Ontario’ legislation and considers halting nickel exports in response to impending U.S. tariffs
Key Highlights from Premier Ford’s Remarks:
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‘Buy Ontario’ Legislation: Premier Ford emphasized the potential implementation of ‘Buy Ontario’ legislation, urging retailers to prominently display Canadian-made products. He suggested that if voluntary measures are insufficient, legislative action would ensure prioritization of Ontario and Canadian goods.
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Government Procurement: The Premier highlighted the province’s annual $30 billion procurement budget, proposing that municipalities align with provincial efforts to source goods domestically, thereby reducing reliance on foreign imports.
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Critical Minerals Strategy: In response to U.S. tariff threats, Ford indicated a willingness to halt nickel shipments to the United States, underscoring the strategic importance of Ontario’s mineral resources to North American manufacturing sectors.
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Energy Supply Considerations: The Premier reiterated potential measures such as imposing surcharges on energy exports to the U.S. and even cutting off electricity supplies to certain states, aiming to protect Ontario’s economic interests.
The Premier also spoke on how he would shut off electricity exports to the United States with “a smile”.
In addition the Premier said that all American alcohol will be pulled from the shelves of the LCBO. The LCBO purchases about $1 billion in American alcohol annually.
As well the Premier confirmed that all contracts with Elon Musk’s Starlink are cancelled.
Premier Ford’s address at the PDAC convention underscored Ontario’s proactive stance in safeguarding its economy against external trade challenges, emphasizing self-reliance and strategic resource management.
