Supporting Southwestern Ontario’s Economy

Southwestern Ontario is home to a diverse and highly skilled economy, with businesses and workers across manufacturing, agri-food, chemicals, technology, research and other sectors.

I recently hosted a roundtable with economic development leaders from across Southwestern Ontario to discuss the challenges facing our region, as well as opportunities to strengthen our economy and support local businesses and workers.

Responding to Changing Trade Conditions

With ongoing changes in international trade and increased pressure on businesses that depend on cross-border markets, the discussion focused on practical ways to strengthen the region’s economic resilience.

Economic development leaders shared their perspectives on trade diversification, investment, supply chains, defence and aerospace, workforce development, innovation and entrepreneurship.

The conversation provided an opportunity to hear directly from organizations working on the ground about what is working, where gaps remain and where federal support could have the greatest impact.

Investing in Our Region’s Future

We also discussed how Southwestern Ontario can continue to attract investment and support the development of emerging industries.

Workforce development was an important part of the conversation, particularly as technology, artificial intelligence and automation continue to change the economy and the skills businesses need.

Participants also highlighted opportunities to strengthen research and development, commercialization and entrepreneurship, helping businesses turn new ideas and technologies into economic opportunities.

London is an important economic centre within Southwestern Ontario, and the success of our local economy is closely connected to the strength of the broader region.

These conversations help identify practical priorities for future federal programming and investment while ensuring that the perspectives of workers, businesses and economic development organizations across Southwestern Ontario are heard.

I will continue working with partners across the region to support our workers, businesses and communities as we navigate a changing economic environment.