What's New This Week - April 17, 2025

Written by 

Robin Cooke

 — 

April 17, 2025

What's New This Week - April 17, 2025

Ontario Unlocking Free Trade Within Canada

Province unleashing billions in new economic opportunity by tearing down barriers to internal free trade and labour mobility

April 16, 2025

As a next step in its plan to protect Ontario by unleashing the province’s economy, the Ontario government is introducing the Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act to unlock free trade and labour mobility within Canada. This legislation will, if passed, create new opportunities for job creation and investment attraction, supporting economic integration across Canada and cutting costly and unnecessary red tape to help protect and grow Ontario and Canada’s economies.

“For too long, we’ve let red tape and endless regulations hold back our economy, making us vulnerable to external threats, including from President Trump’s tariffs,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Not anymore. The legislation we’re introducing today will make Ontario a national leader when it comes to trade between provinces and territories, so we can strengthen and unify Canada and create new markets and opportunities for Ontario workers and goods.”

Read More Here

Policy Matters — 3 Opportunities for Economic Growth  

The trade war with the U.S. has taught Canada a painful lesson: we’ve been patching our economic holes with the convenience of U.S. trade for too long. Economic security and sovereignty starts at home.  

While there’s no easy or quick fix to these economic challenges, there are opportunities that Canada can pursue now to ensure long-term success and a better life for all.

In the latest edition of Policy Matters, we highlight three of these opportunities: trade diversification, value-add manufacturing and renegotiating CUSMA.

Read More HereCongratulations to Sarnia Lambton's MPP Bob Bailey on his appointment to be the parliamentary assistant to Rural Affairs Minister Lisa Thompson.It is Time To Play Chamber Bingo!

Play Chamber Bingo and Support Local Businesses!

Join the fun and support our Chamber Members by participating in Chamber Bingo! Here's how:

  • Pick Up Your Bingo Card: Visit the Chamber office to collect your bingo card.​
  • Shop Local: Visit participating businesses, make purchases, and keep your receipts.​
  • Submit Your Entries: Drop off your completed bingo card along with receipts at the Chamber office by December 3rd.​

Prizes:

You could win one of four prize baskets valued at:​

  1. $240.00​
  2. $300.00​
  3. $585.00​
  4. $1,500.00​

Are you a young professional, entrepreneur, or employee under 40 in Sarnia-Lambton? Looking to expand your network and build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals? Look no further!

Join us on May 06, 2025 at Stokes Inland Grill & Bar for an evening of networking, fun, and opportunities to grow your professional circle.

We look forward to seeing you there!  Bring your networking game!

Register Today

Join us at Fairwinds Lodge, where the first 25 Chamber Members to register will enjoy a complimentary breakfast!

Our monthly Coffee & Connections is the perfect way to kickstart your morning—meet new and familiar faces, share ideas, and build those invaluable connections that drive success.

Don't miss out!  Register Today!

Register Today!

Join us for the Chamber’s Women in Business event at the Dante Club as we celebrate the achievements of women across Lambton County.

We’re proud to welcome Imperial Sarnia Site as our 2025 sponsor, helping us honour the incredible women shaping our community.

This April, hear from keynote speaker Deborah Crowe as she presents Leading with Heart: Harnessing Emotional Intelligence and Heart-Centered Leadership. With over 30 years of global experience, Deborah brings a fresh, inspiring perspective on leadership and empowerment.

Don't miss this chance to connect, be inspired, and celebrate!

Register Today

Register Today

Register Today

Sarnia-Lambton Business Forum on Tariff Impacts

Tariffs continue to affect the way businesses operate, plan, and compete in a global economy. To better understand these impacts locally, the Lambton Business Collaborative is hosting an information-gathering forum to hear directly from Sarnia-Lambton businesses about their experiences, challenges, and concerns.

·      Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025

·      Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

·      Location: The Gateway Room, St. Clair Corporate Centre

·      Facilitator: Bryan Boyle, Bryan Boyle & Associates

This session will be facilitated and structured to encourage open dialogue across different sectors in the Sarnia-Lambton business community. Your feedback will help shape regional advocacy efforts and identify opportunities for targeted support.

Register Today

Paid Marketing Bundle

Paid Marketing Bundle

Contact The Team Today!Paid Marketing Bundle

Whether you need temporary help or want to assess a future hire, a Lambton College co-op student can be the perfect fit.

For More informationChamber Membership Has Its Advantages

Find Out More Here

Wishing you and yours and wonderful Easter!  
The Chamber Office will be closed Good Friday and Easter Monday.

The Chamber office will also be closed Thursday, April 24th and Friday, April 25th to allow the team to represent our members in Windsor at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce AGM.  

Contact Us Today!

Become a Member

Join the people who get things done. We are the hub for business communication and collaboration. Your membership provides you with a connection to local businesses, events, seminars, and member exclusive deals. We invite you to enjoy all that we have to offer.