Brampton International Markets Corporation

The City of Brampton is exploring the possibility of forming a Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) as part of its commitment to build relationships in new international markets and support the diversification of export markets for goods and services from Brampton and area.

On February 26, 2025, the City Council approved a resolution, in part that reads as follows: “That staff engage in public consultation and report back to Council with a business case study for the creation of a municipal services corporation (MSC) to build relationships in new international markets and support the diversification of export markets for goods and services from Brampton."

For more information, see: City of Brampton seeking public input on proposed Municipal Services Corporation.

Context and Background

Brampton City Council passed, on February 26, 2025, resolution C053-2025 as follows:

WHEREAS, the United States has announced its intent to impose tariffs on all Canadian goods destined for the U.S.;

WHEREAS, these proposed tariffs threaten the stability of local industries and businesses, particularly those in Brampton, and could severely impact our economy, workers, and trade relations with the U.S.;

WHEREAS the City of Brampton is committed to protecting its local businesses, ensuring fair trade practices, and maintaining a competitive environment for all industries;

WHEREAS, on January 29, a motion was passed regarding a “Made in Canada” procurement policy exception in response to tariff threats from the US, should they be implemented;

WHEREAS, KPMG’s recent survey to Canadian Business leaders shares that 9 in 10 Canadian business leaders "wholeheartedly believe" that Canadian governments "must stand firm in protecting Canada's sovereignty and values" and that includes fighting tariffs with tariffs, and over 80% want a targeted, dollar-for-dollar retaliatory response;

WHEREAS the City of Brampton needs to send a clear message that Canada is committed to ensuring balanced and fair-trade relationships, ensuring that businesses in Brampton and across Canada are not unfairly impacted by U.S. tariffs.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED

That staff be directed to advocate for reciprocal tariffs to protect Brampton and Canadian industries,

That the City of Brampton collaborates with federal and provincial governments in championing policies that prioritize Brampton’s businesses and workers and ensure that Canada’s trade interests are effectively represented.

That City staff work with federal and provincial partners to ensure necessary support systems are in place for Canadian businesses to remain competitive in the global market and mitigate the impact of tariffs on key sectors.

That City staff advocate for federal financial support to help Canadian businesses offset shipping costs and access new markets

That City staff create the Mayor’s Tariff Task Force to address the challenges and opportunities of the tariffs and strengthening the city’s economy by:

· Developing a City to City strategy to engage local stakeholders in the U.S. market, including reaching out to U.S. businesses operating in Brampton; and US municipalities with common interest in protecting and strengthening our supply chain and exploring new opportunities.

· Exploring the diversification of Brampton’s trade relationships and removing inter-provincial trade barriers to prioritize Canadian supply chain opportunities.

· That the City of Brampton Economic Development Office support ongoing efforts and plan to build and strengthen market opportunities outside the USA.

· That staff engage in public consultation and report back to Council with a business case study for the creation of a municipal services corporation (MSC) to build relationships in new international markets and support the diversification of export markets for goods and services from Brampton.

Council Resolution and Public Consultation

Public Consultation: The Council of the City of Brampton has directed staff to undertake the necessary public consultation for establishing a Municipal Services Corporation. This is in light of the new circumstances of tariffs on Canadian goods and services.

Business Plan: Staff are to report back on a business case study to build relationships in new international markets that support the diversification of export markets for goods and services from Brampton.

Stakeholder Consultations: The business case study will include stakeholder consultation.