In the lead-up to the upcoming federal election, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce—working in collaboration with community and provincial chambers from across Canada—has united around shared business objectives. These priorities reflect the top concerns raised by local businesses and chambers nationwide.
In this election, Canadians have a choice to make between political parties offering sometimes confusing and complex policy solutions, some of which help businesses while others do not. At the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, it is our role to cut through the noise, highlight what matters most to the business community, and advocate for policies that support economic growth, competitiveness, and long-term prosperity.
Therefore, over the next two weeks, we will be sharing the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s federal election priorities, highlighting four key economic issues alongside practical, solution-focused recommendations. These priorities reflect the needs of businesses across the country and the path to a more competitive, resilient economy.
Q1: How do we ensure growth and prosperity?
THE PROBLEM
Economy-wide inflation. Low investment. Uncompetitive economy. Working more while taking home less.
THE SOLUTION
Tax Relief for Canadians
- Stop raising taxes and reverse uncompetitive tax policies, including the Digital Services Tax and Capital Gains Tax.
- Get government spending in order, reducing deficit spending that will get inflation under control.
- Cut taxes for businesses, and reform the innovation tax credit system.
Cut Red Tape
- Introduce new laws and regulations only after considering the economic impact on Canadian businesses.
- Promote regulatory harmonization between federal and provincial authorities.
- Modernize the Red Tape Reduction Act to legislate a “one in; two out.”
THE RESULTS
- More money in the pockets of Canadian businesses, allowing for greater business investment, higher wages, and increased prosperity.
- Canadian businesses are more competitive, with more time spent on improving their product or service.
- Businesses spend less time completing forms and government submissions and more time focusing on their customers.
- Across-the-board economic growth.
Q2: How do we secure Canada’s national and economic security?
THE PROBLEM
Reliance on other countries. Industries leaving Canada for other countries. Inability to rapidly adapt to changing global security and economic landscapes.
THE SOLUTION
Grow Canadian Energy
- Speed up regulatory requirements for projects with clear economic benefits.
- Identify and approve new resource projects to meet the growing demand for Canadian energy.
- Transport Canadian energy across our country in safe and more efficient pipelines.
Protect Canadians
- Assert our sovereignty by meeting our 2% NATO defence spending target.
- Ensure Canada’s armed forces have the equipment they need to be effective and safe.
THE RESULTS
- Increase energy sector investment and create thousands of new Canadian jobs.
- Protect Canada from foreign threats.
- Enhance energy security and independence from the United States.
- Strengthen Canada’s negotiating position on the global stage.
- Improve international trade relationships by ensuring goods and resources arrive on time.
