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Media Release with a photo of the Civic Centre in the background

Council addresses procurement standards for EG during U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian goods

At the March 18 meeting, East Gwillimbury (EG) Council ratified a resolution in support of measures that the federal and provincial governments have implemented in response to current and proposed United States tariffs on Canadian imports.

The report to Council included local analysis, information on how tariffs may impact Town procurement activities, an outline of how the Town will continue to support local businesses including a “buy local” campaign, and how the Procurement Branch will monitor current contracts to identify and mitigate potential risks. Further, the Council decision calls upon the federal and provincial governments to remove trade barriers between provinces and impediments towards preferring Canadian companies in procurements for capital projects and supplies; and that effective immediately and until the threat of tariffs is lifted, the Town of East Gwillimbury will:

1) Prioritize procurement of Canadian goods, services, and suppliers; and
2) Review circumstances and explore options where there are limited alternatives to goods, services, or suppliers from the United States on a case-by-case basis; and
3) Monitor existing contracts to identify and mitigate potential risks.

“Council stands up for East Gwillimbury and for Canada,” said Mayor Virginia Hackson. “This resolution supports Town businesses and encourages shopping local. We are protecting the Town’s interests during this time of uncertainty, by creating certainty through our actions and the procurement choices we make. We stand together in East Gwillimbury against threats to our economy.”

Facts on procurement in EG:

  • On February 19, 2025, Town staff brought forward a memorandum to Council that provided a preliminary assessment of the anticipated local impact of tariffs and identified early response actions.
  • The report on procurement in response to tariffs was presented to Council on March 18, 2025. It was ratified the same day.
  • Historically, almost all Town procurements for services and construction have been supplied and built by Ontario-based firms, many within York Region.
  • EG currently has approximately $100 million in ongoing capital projects ($80 million approved before 2025, and $20 million approved in the 2025 budget).
  • EG continues to monitor and support local businesses through information outreach and support programs available through the Town’s Economic Development Branch – more information can be found at the EG Loves Local page and the EG Tariffs Resource page.

For more information:
Bethany Lee
Director of Communications and Customer Service
blee@eastgwillimbury.ca