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35% U.S. Tariffs, An Exemption Exists

Small and mid-sized Canadian exporters face rising costs under new U.S. tariffs - but many could avoid them through USMCA certification.

35% U.S. Tariffs, An Exemption Exists [Barrie, ON — August 5, 2025] As of August 1, 2025, the United States has increased tariffs on a wide range of Canadian goods to 35%, up from the 25% rate imposed in March. These tariffs apply to any Canadian exports that are not certified under the United States-Mexico-Canada…

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Announcement: 2025/2026 Board of Directors

Announcement: 2025/2026 Board of Directors From left to right: Mayor Alex Nuttall, Angela Baldwin, Barbara White, Leah Smith-Size, Karen Johnson, Sarah Dobson, Rowley Ramey, Patricia Dent, Rob Newman, Patrick Harriott-Stewart, President Salim Bardai, Bruce MacGillivray, CEO Paul Markle, Rychard Lardner, Andy Gubbels, and Teena Sauve Mayor Alex Nuttall Administers Oath of Office at Inaugural Meeting…

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Press Release: In Memory of Steve Loftus

Press Release: In Memory of Steve Loftus In Memory of Steve Loftus   We’re saddened to hear of the passing of Steve Loftus. A respected leader, innovator and long-time supporter of the Barrie community.   Through his work with Innovative Automation, Steve helped put Barrie on the map as a centre for advanced manufacturing and…

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Powering Barrie’s Growth

Powering Barrie’s Growth Why Ontario’s Energy Investment Matters to Us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   [June 6, 2025] This morning, the Ontario government announced a series of fast-tracked electricity transmission projects. The Barrie Chamber is pleased to see that Barrie is included in this initiative.   The Orangeville–Barrie transmission line will be upgraded, a move that…

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Press Release: 2025 Ontario Budget

Press Release: 2025 Ontario Budget READ THE 2025 ONTARIO BUDGET RAPID POLICY UPDATE On May 15, 2025, the Government of Ontario released its 2025 Budget: A Plan to Protect Ontario. The following is a summary of highlights from the perspective of Ontario’s business community, organized according to the OCC’s four economic imperatives to drive inclusive, sustainable growth.…

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2025 Ontario Budget Submission

2025 Ontario Budget Submission

2025 Ontario Budget Submission Ontario Budget Must Boost Growth, Productivity and Global Competitiveness Ahead of Budget 2025, Ontario Chamber reveals its recommendations to Minister of Finance   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 14, 2025 (Toronto – May 14, 2025) – As Ontario prepares to table its 2025 Budget, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has released…

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A Win for the Region: New Agreement Unlocks Future Growth

Barrie-Springwater boundary adjustement and cross border servicing map (draft)

A Win for the Region: New Agreement Unlocks Future Growth Image Source: City of Barrie MEDIA STATEMENT For Immediate Release [Barrie, ON – May 9, 2025] The Barrie Chamber of Commerce welcomes today’s announcement from the City of Barrie and the Township of Springwater regarding their proposed boundary adjustment and servicing agreement. This display of…

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PRESS RELEASE: Barrie Chamber of Commerce Launches International Twin City Exchange with Harrogate, UK

A split photo of Barrie, Ontario and Harrogate, UK, encouraging the Twin City Exchange

PRESS RELEASE: Barrie Chamber of Commerce Launches International Twin City Exchange with Harrogate, UK Twin city partnership opens doors for local businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow internationally Barrie Chamber Harrogate BID Downtown BIA Harrogate Chamber Interested in learning more or getting involved? Complete our quick Expression of Interest form by May 30 — no…

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Barrie Chamber of Commerce Response to U.S. Tariffs: March 4, 2025

Barrie Chamber of Commerce Response to U.S. Tariffs: March 4, 2025 MARCH 12, 2025: Ontario Suspends Energy Surcharge, U.S. Halts Tariff Increase. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has suspended the 25% surcharge on energy exports to the U.S. in exchange for a meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. In response, President Trump has halted his…

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