2023 ONTARIO BUDGET - CME CELEBRATES HISTORIC COMMITMENT TO ONTARIO MADE MANUFACTURING

TORONTO, March 23, 2023 /CNW/ - Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) welcomes the commitment to advanced manufacturing in Ontario's 2023 Budget which introduces broad incentives to enable investments in technology adoption, skills development, and energy transition. This follows unprecedented investment committed by the US government as part of the Inflation Reduction Act.

Manufacturing Investment Competitiveness – Ontario Answers CME's Call

Budget 2023 introduced the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit, which CME has long advocated for, including at a recent roundtable of manufacturing CEOs with the Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy.

"Manufacturing is no longer an after thought in provincial budgets, it is a centrepiece. With this consequential Budget, Ontario establishes a leading position among provinces in spurring an industrial resurgence," said Dennis Darby, President and CEO of CME. "This will ensure that more Ontario companies, sectors and communities can participate in the long-term prosperity the sector has to offer."

Skills and Labour Shortages: Getting Manufacturers the Workers We Need

A renewed focus on tackling labour shortages was met with additional funding for the essential Skills Development Fund (SDF), including a new capital stream to support training centres. The SDF has funded several CME initiatives, including Women in Manufacturing training, Lean Training, and Health and Safety Training.

Also interesting was the increased funding for the Ontario Nominee Program. The recent doubling of immigrant levels under the program is a welcome sign that the province is gaining more control over its ability to attract the workers it needs for the future.

Advanced Manufacturing Strategy: Hints of More Good News Ahead

CME was pleased to see an ongoing focus on reducing costs and enhancing competitiveness for Ontario manufacturers, building on past policies like the reduction of WSIB premiums, which continues to deliver ongoing savings for CME members.

Noteworthy commitments included reviewing the tax system and working with municipalities and utilities to create serviceable industrial sites, in support of Ontario's competitiveness in attracting high-value advanced manufacturing projects. This sets the stage for productive discussions ahead, as part of a promised Advanced Manufacturing Council.

"As happy as we are about this Budget, competition from other countries is fierce. The world is realizing the immense value manufacturing brings to advanced economies. As the province moves to establish a more comprehensive industrial strategy, we remain ready to provide meaningful and practical advice, grounded in day-to-day realities our members continue to face," concluded Darby.

ABOUT CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS (CME)

From the first industrial boom in Canada, CME has advocated for and represented member interests. 150 years strong, CME has earned an extensive and effective track record of working for and with 2,500 leading companies nationwide. More than 85 per cent of CME's members are SMEs and collectively account for an estimated 82 per cent of total manufacturing production and 90 per cent of Canada's exports.

SOURCE Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

Anna Woodmass, Senior Consultant, NATIONAL Public Relations, C: 416-571-2147, [email protected]