London Chamber Engages in Consultations on Natural Gas Policy

The London Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its recent participation in the Ministry of Energy’s consultation on the long-term role of natural gas in Ontario’s energy system and economy. This critical dialogue aligns with the government’s efforts to shape Ontario’s energy future while balancing affordability, reliability, and environmental sustainability.

The consultation is part of the Ministry’s development of a Natural Gas Policy Statement, a cornerstone of Ontario’s integrated energy plan. The policy aims to provide clear direction on how natural gas will contribute to the province’s energy transition and long-term economic growth. Natural gas currently accounts for almost 40% of Ontario’s total energy use and serves as a vital component of the electricity generation mix, industrial processes, and residential heating.

Tariffs are the most urgent threat facing Canadian and American businesses today, putting at risk the economic prosperity and interconnectedness that has defined our nations' trade relationship. Every day, $3.6 billion in goods crosses the Canada-U.S. border, fueling a $1.3 trillion annual trade relationship that sustains 2.3 million Canadian jobs tied to U.S. exports and 1.4 million American jobs tied to Canadian exports. These figures underscore the critical role trade plays in the livelihoods of families and the health of industries on both sides of the border.

However, the specter of a 25% tariff on Canadian goods looms large, threatening to disrupt this vital partnership. According to new data from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab, such tariffs would shrink Canada’s GDP by 2.6%, translating to a loss of $1,900 CAD in real annual income per Canadian household. The United States would not escape unscathed, with a projected 1.6% GDP reduction and a $1,300 USD loss for American families. These numbers make it clear: tariffs are not just bad policy for Canadians - they harm American workers, families, and businesses as well.

The prorogation of the federal government couldn’t have come at a worse time. As we enter this uncertain geopolitical landscape, this message is directed not only to the next Prime Minister but to their successors as well: Canada must urgently prioritize and accelerate its defence spending.

On January 20, President Trump will be inaugurated. While some of his rhetoric - including threats of 25% across-the-board tariffs on Canada - may seem implausible, his administration’s potential for disruptive trade policies cannot be dismissed. Trump has consistently urged Canada to fulfill its NATO commitments and strengthen border security, and in these areas, his demands are not without merit. Failing to address these concerns could leave us vulnerable to both economic and security risks.