Ontario Chamber: Federal GST Relief Adds Holiday Costs, Confusion, and Stress for Business

(Toronto – November 25, 2024) – Today, Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), issued the following statement in response to the federal government’s announcement on Goods and Service Tax (GST) relief.

“The Ontario Chamber of Commerce is a strong advocate for policies that support a stronger economy – and good economic policy requires partnership and predictability. While the GST tax relief measure will stimulate demand and bring some financial relief to consumers during the holiday season, it also means added costs, confusion and stress for businesses that must now retool and adjust their systems during the busiest time of the year.

“Good public policy usually should not come as a holiday surprise. Affordability measures will be better received – and more impactful – when there is clarity and coordination with the business community and with other orders of government. The Ontario Chamber stands ready to collaborate with all governments to ensure businesses have a predictable policy environment that will spur growth and entrepreneurship.”