The City of Richmond Hill is implementing a “made in Canada” procurement approach to further support Canadian and local businesses in response to potential tariffs from the United States.
"Richmond Hill already supports local as most of the suppliers that the city procures goods and services are located in Canada. Payments to U.S. suppliers constitute less than one per cent of the city’s total procurement expenditures," accoridng to a city news release.
In anticipation of the tariffs on Canadian goods in the U.S., Richmond Hill is ensuring procurement practices prioritize Canadian goods and services when possible.
The city is working with small businesses to better understand the impact of tariffs would have on their companies. Richmond Hill business owners are encouraged to complete our business outlook survey that will help city staff provide timely resources to businesses.
In addition, Richmond Hill’s economic development team will continue to support businesses during this time, by offering services that include business consultations, seminars and workshops. For more information, visit the city’s tariff response resources.
“As a former small business owner, I understand the implications tariff threats can have on a small to medium-sized business, especially when it is beyond your control. That’s why we as council, with the support of our city staff, are paying close attention to the economy and the tariff threats and doing what we can to support our local business community. We want local business owners to know that we stand behind them and will continue to prioritize our support to help keep our local economy strong,” Mayor David West said.