My recent column suggested that Canada implement a "Buy Canadian" strategy associated with major natural resource developments, with the goal of enhancing Canadian content in the overall value chain. Can we utilize our strong foothold in resource extraction, and try to leverage greater investment and value-added upstream in the value chain (for example, by stimulating more purchases of Canadian-made mining equipment)?
A national 'Buy Canadian' strategy for resource developments
How refreshing it was to open Monday's Globe and Mail and actually see good news from the Canadian manufacturing heartland. Greg Keenan reported on the expansion of Hitachi's factory in Guelph, Ont., that makes enormous trucks for mining operations; the plant is doubling output and employment.
Are EU trade talks behind the pressure to end local procurement?
Judging by all the recent hype about “Buy America,” you’d think Canada had suddenly been devastated by some horrible natural disaster.
As if out of nowhere, “Buy America” provisions in the U.S. stimulus Bill are suddenly at the top of the policy agenda for the Harper government, the Premiers and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. It matters little that the U.S. government has had “Buy America” laws in place since 1933.