Should Ontario Require Public Agencies to Buy Ontario-Made Vehicles and Construction Materials?
Official title: Establish 'Buy Ontario' policies under the Buy Ontario Act (Public Sector Procurement), 2025 for light duty fleet vehicles and construction procurements to promote, protect and build Ontario's economy and businesses and safeguard Ontario's domestic supply chains.
Why This Matters
Work in Ontario's auto industry? This could protect your job. Own a construction supply business? More contracts might come your way. But there's a catch—these rules could mean higher costs for municipalities, which might affect your property taxes. And if you're a small business trying to bid on government contracts, new paperwork requirements could make things harder.
What Could Change
Municipalities and local boards would become subject to provincial procurement directives for the first time. Public sector buyers would face a tiered system: Ontario-made vehicles first, then vehicles from Ontario-based manufacturers, then alternatives only as a last resort. Construction projects would need to prioritize Ontario and Canadian materials. Businesses bidding on contracts may need to submit Domestic Supply Chain Plans.
Key Issues
- Should municipalities and local boards be required to follow provincial Buy Ontario procurement rules?
- Should public sector buyers be required to prioritize Ontario-made fleet vehicles?
- Should construction projects use Ontario-made goods and services wherever possible?
- How can the policy minimize administrative burden while achieving its goals?
How to Participate
- Complete the feedback survey to share your views on the proposed Buy Ontario policies.