
3 minute read
ADVOCACY IN ACTION
CANADA HOSTS THE B7 SUMMIT
Critical minerals, energy, supply chains, trade and security topped the agenda as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce hosted the B7 Summit in Ottawa in May.
Political leaders in attendance were former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and Minister of Industry Melanie Joly. Business leaders included the heads of all national chambers of commerce in the B7: Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, U.S. and Canada.
Many views were expressed on how G7 countries can manage the treacherous waters in which the world economy finds itself. Subsequent to the discussions, several key points emerged that should serve as the basis for chamber advocacy in the coming months and years. They are as follows:
Critical minerals
G7 countries need increased access to critical minerals
Critical minerals are vital for the G7’s economic security and achieving net zero
To bring Canada’s critical minerals to market, Canadian businesses need increased access to capital and reduced regulations
Energy
Affordable and reliable energy is vital to Canada’s economy and our sovereignty
Canada is a reliable and trusted supplier of energy to other G7 countries
In order for Canada to continue to be a reliable and trusted supplier of energy to the world, we need better east-west and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) infrastructure
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI has enormous economic potential; it also enhances our security
AI adoption is low in G7 countries because of a lack of knowledge of AI as a tool
AI also needs to be developed within a consistent and stable regulatory framework
Infrastructure
G7 countries need to continue building infrastructure of all kinds including transportation, energy, digital and health – the building of this infrastructure will enhance opportunities for business and increase economic output
In Canada, infrastructure building, especially in relation to transportation and energy, has been limited by the slow pace of both approvals and construction
Supply Chains
Supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic have been followed by supply chain disruptions as a result of the Russia-Ukraine War and trade disputes
Over-reliance on players such as Russia and China have created challenges in G7 countries
Health Security
Economic success and stability cannot occur without healthy populations
Increased innovation in health care is needed
MISSISSAUGA CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION PLAN CONSULTATIONS
Many MBOT members are engaged in efforts to address climate change – and the City of Mississauga is actively involved as well.
In 2023, the City of Mississauga began consulting with the public regarding its Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP). Since then, the City has engaged in benchmarking, data collection and scenario development.
Consultations are continuing through spring and summer, 2025 and MBOT members are encouraged to get involved.
To participate in the consultations and learn more about the CCAP, please visit: https://www.mississauga.ca/projects-and-strategies/city-projects/climate-change-action-plan/