Ontario Chamber: Federal Government Responds to Business Calls with New Tariff Support

(TORONTO – May 4, 2026) – Today, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s President and CEO, Daniel Tisch, issued the following statement on the federal government’s announcement of $1.5 billion in new support for tariff-impacted industries: 

“A week ago, the Ontario Chamber and 31 local chambers in affected regions issued a call for urgent action to support businesses under attack from expanded U.S. tariffs – and it’s encouraging to see Ministers Joly and Solomon listening and responding. 

“By adding new BDC financing and topping up the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, the government is providing relief in a way that’s both meaningful and responsible. This gives businesses essential breathing room today and helps them adapt their operations for tomorrow. 

“What matters most now is delivery. These programs need to be accessible, well-designed, and responsive to on‑the‑ground realities.  

“The Ontario Chamber looks forward to working with the federal government to ensure these supports reach businesses quickly and help them adapt, invest and grow.”  

Read the full announcement here. 

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About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce 

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is the indispensable partner of business and Canada’s largest, most influential provincial chamber. It is an independent, non profit advocacy and member services organization representing a diverse network of 60,000 members. The OCC convenes, mobilizes, and empowers business and local chambers in pursuit of its purpose: to bring inclusive and sustainable prosperity to Ontario’s businesses, workers, and communities. 

For more information, please contact: 

Andrea Carmona
Director of Public Affairs
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
andreacarmona@occ.ca | Mobile: 647 234 0255