Former Mississauga mayor, Bonnie Crombie, is making a comeback bid by unveiling a comprehensive strategy to tackle the recent 50% tariffs imposed by the U.S. government. Trade discussions between Canada and the United States hit a roadblock last week, with Prime Minister Mark Carney attributing the breakdown to unreasonable measures implemented by the Trump administration, including constraints on Canada’s trade agreements with other nations.
Crombie’s plan, set to be officially announced on Thursday, aims to safeguard Mississauga’s businesses and employment while fostering local companies’ diversification. Among the proposed initiatives are offering interest-free property tax deferrals to businesses directly impacted by U.S. tariffs and establishing permanent and measurable procurement policies promoting Canadian-made and Mississauga-based products.
Additionally, Crombie plans to assemble a specialized Mayor’s Tariff Action Team and prioritize the development of Mississauga’s Lake Ontario waterfront as a key component of the city’s investment strategy. Current Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish recently held discussions with key stakeholders, including the Mississauga Board of Trade president and city officials, to devise strategies for advocating and supporting small to medium-sized businesses affected by the trade disruptions.
In response to the escalating trade tensions, the Canadian government announced an increase in tariffs on American steel and aluminum products from 25% to 50%. To assist Canadian businesses impacted by the trade conflict, a $7.5-billion aid package was also unveiled.
