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Windsor, April 18, 2024 — The Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce approaches the 2024 Federal Budget with cautious optimism as it reflects on the government of Canada’s promises and priorities. The Chamber sees key benefits that will help our region while looking beyond to greater challenges of the local and national economy.

“We are pleased with some key elements that will be positive for our region” said Rakesh Naidu, Chamber President & CEO. “New funding to reduce the costs of electric vehicles and funding to develop charging infrastructure are a key part to making sure that the transition over to EVs is as smooth as possible for consumers and businesses.”

The Chamber has been particularly active on the Electric Vehicle front as Windsor-Essex becomes the hub of the sector’s transition over to electric from traditional internal combustion engines. In the past few years the Chamber has called for increased infrastructure and support for businesses including independent auto shops as more and more vehicles on the road become electric.

The Chamber has noted several other highlights including:

  • Incentives for mining in Canada to create a stronger domestic supply chain for electric vehicles
  • Small Business Carbon Rebate to help small businesses offset their carbon tax costs
  • The funding to create Ojibway National Urban Park and
  • The streamlining of Internal Trade

While the Chamber is encouraged by all these initiatives to help Canadian and local businesses, the Chamber still has key concerns, including the increase to the capital gains tax.

“Productivity remains a challenge for our economy as our global competitor’s continue to gain an advantage” iterated Naidu. “The government’s investment in Artificial Intelligence is a good start but we need to make sure that there is a long-term plan to make our country more productive and an attractive destination to invest capital.”