Canadians have turned out in record numbers for early voting ahead of the federal election scheduled for April 28, 2025. Elections Canada reported that nearly two million people voted on the first day of advance polls, marking a 36% increase compared to the first day of advance polls in the 2021 election.
The unprecedented early turnout suggests heightened voter engagement, possibly driven by pressing national issues such as economic concerns and Canada-U.S. relations. While it’s too early to predict overall voter participation, the surge in advance voting indicates a strong public interest in the electoral process this year.
As Canadians prepare to make important decisions that will shape the nation’s economic and political landscape, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce remains committed to advocating for policies that support economic growth. In last week’s newsletter, we explored the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s first two federal election priorities: ensuring growth and prosperity, and securing Canada’s national and economic security.
This week, we continue to share the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s election priorities, highlighting the final two key economic issues which focus on ensuring reliable supply chains, and fostering good government to regain the trust of Canadians.
Q3: How do we ensure reliable supply chains?
THE PROBLEM
Lack of upgraded roads, rail, and port systems to get our products to market on time. Maze of competing regulations making it impossible to trade within Canada. The result: Canada is seen as an unreliable and undesirable trading partner.
THE SOLUTION
Bring True Free Trade within Canada
- Facilitate the free movement of Canadian goods and qualified workers across provinces by eliminating interprovincial trade barriers and enhancing labour mobility.
- Develop a long-term vision for domestic internal trade corridors.
- Collaborate with provinces to align laws and regulations.
Create Redundancy in Canada’s Supply Chains
- Foster trade relationships that provide opportunities for Canadian business to compete internationally and create good-paying Canadian jobs.
- Provide long-term investment in Canadian roads, rail and port infrastructure to ensure Canadian businesses can get goods to market reliably.
THE RESULTS
- Increase resilience against global disruptions.
- Enhance trade efficiency and reduced dependency on single points of failure, supporting economic growth.
- Attract foreign investment from likeminded districts and enhance Canada’s competitiveness in international markets.
Q4: How do we foster good government and regain the trust of Canadians?
THE PROBLEM
Canadians see waste and favouritism across the government while their taxes continue to rise. Labour shortages are making manufacturing and resource industries uncompetitive.
THE SOLUTION
Simplify the Tax System
- Simplify our tax rules to bring fairness to hard-working Canadians and businesses alike.
- Conduct a comprehensive review of the tax system to reduce the time it takes companies to file.
Responsible Immigration for Business
- Create a predictable immigration system that businesses can rely on.
- Tie immigration levels to gaps in the labour market.
- Recognize foreign credentials, especially in sectors where there is a shortage of qualified Canadians.
THE RESULTS
- Free up resources for critical investments in infrastructure and other programs, enhancing Canada’s economy.
- Attract investment in Canada, fostering a competitive business environment.
- Address workforce gaps.
- A resilient economy that benefits businesses and Canadians.
