Why is it so important for Ontario to act quickly in the global race for critical minerals? As OCC VP of Public Affairs Julie Martini explains, the province’s mining sector supports everything from climate action and advanced manufacturing to national security and Indigenous economic reconciliation.
Commerce Talks is the official podcast of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, featuring leaders and experts from across our provincial Chamber Network in discussion about current topics impacting business in Ontario.
Host: @dantisch.bsky.social, President and CEO from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
Special Guests:
Chris Conway, CEO of Food and Beverage Ontario.
Ian Dunn, President and CEO of the Ontario Forest Industries Association.
Andy Veilleux, President of the Guelph Chamber of Commerce.
What will it take for Ontario businesses to navigate the uncertainty around Canada-US trade in 2026? In the first episode of our #CommerceTalks series, we explore the impact of US tariffs and the upcoming review of #CUSMA/#USMCA.
Watch here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=EW--...
OCC president and CEO Daniel Tisch spoke with CBC News on the anniversary of Premier Ford’s re-election about the Ontario Government’s response to U.S. tariffs and the impact they have had on Canada-U.S. relations.
www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...
How can Ontario turn potential into opportunity in the race for critical minerals? OCC President and CEO Daniel Tisch Echevarría says that with the right government support, talent, infrastructure and partnerships with Indigenous Peoples, the province can be a world leader in mining.
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce welcomes the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on the use of U.S. tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Read our full statement here: occ.ca/mediarelease...
“This is a resilient economy. It didn’t shrink last year – it grew. Unemployment didn't skyrocket – it stabilized. But resilience is not recovery."
OCC CEO Daniel Tisch Echevarría spoke with CityNews today about the 2026 Ontario Economic Report.
Read the report: https://occ.ca/interactive-oer2026/
WATCH: Ontario businesses are facing growing trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty. OCC President and CEO @dantisch.bsky.social explains why resilience, diversification and collaboration matter now, and shares updates on key OCC initiatives, including the upcoming 2026 Ontario Economic Report.
Today, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce announced that it has appointed Kelly Hoey, Executive Director of HIEC and ApprenticeSearch.com, as its new Co-Chair of the OCC’s Workforce Development Policy Council.
The stage is set. The date is locked in. 16.09.2025 — the return of the much-anticipated 3rd annual Smart Growth Symposium presented by the OCC and the Climate Positive Energy Initiative (CPE) at the University of Toronto. 🌱🏙️
📆 Save the date and learn more here: occ.ca/events/sgs20...
Let’s keep working together to uphold the principles that support a strong, competitive, and fair North American economy.
#CUSMA #TradePolicy #OntarioBusiness #NorthAmericanTrade
🤝 As North America looks ahead to the renegotiation of CUSMA, we urge leaders in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico to commit to a clear, transparent, and fair approach. Businesses — particularly SMEs — must be heard and protected from instability.
⚖️ While the decision may still face appeal, it’s a strong reminder of the importance of judicial oversight. Upholding legal processes and institutional integrity is essential, particularly in uncertain times.
✅ This is a positive outcome for U.S. businesses, state governments, and the broader North American economy. It affirms that trade policy should not be driven by executive impulse, but by clear legal frameworks and proper oversight.
📢 The U.S. Court of International Trade has unanimously ruled that certain tariffs imposed under the guise of “national emergencies” were unlawful — a decision that supports due process, economic stability, and the rule of law.
Thank you to Camille and the entire team at CMHA Ontario for their leadership and for being such an important voice in this conversation. Your insights help shape a stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient Ontario.
#ONChamberNetwork #AdvocacyMatters
As business and community leaders, we must see mental health supports as essential infrastructure for a thriving workforce.
In her presentation, "Mental Health in Ontario – An Economic and Health Imperative," Camille reminded us that mental health is not just a personal issue — it's an economic one. Her message was clear: the well-being of our communities and the strength of our local economies are deeply intertwined.
The OCC was honoured to welcome Camille Quenneville, CEO of the @cmhaontario.bsky.social, as the afternoon keynote speaker at our #OCCAdvocacyDay2025.
We urge all parties to stay at the bargaining table and work towards a swift, sustainable resolution that reflects the realities of today’s economy.
As businesses grapple with economic uncertainty and Trump’s trade war, a postal strike would make a bad situation worse, particularly for those who rely on mail delivery for essential documents, invoices, payments, and product shipments. Our concern is particularly acute for rural communities.
The Ontario Chamber is deeply concerned about the prospect of another Canada Post strike, which would disproportionately affect small and medium-sized enterprises. They are the backbone of Canada’s economy, and the least equipped to absorb additional delays or costs.
Nominations are open for our 2025 Ontario Business Achievement Awards! 🏆
Have a project, program, or individual you want to honour?
Learn more about the award categories: bit.ly/3SMRV2s
🚨 Don't wait—nominate today! Regular rate pricing closes on June 15: bit.ly/438KqsQ
Advocacy in Action: Our 10th Annual Advocacy Day at Queen’s Park!
Last week, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce proudly convened over 50 chambers of commerce and boards of trade, and 145 attendees from across Ontario at Queen’s Park for a full day of dialogue, policy, and partnership.
Today, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce released its 2025 Ontario Budget Submission.
Read our release: bit.ly/4jVy6SL
Read our recommendations: bit.ly/4diheTC
At today’s @ontariocofc.bsky.social Advocacy Day, CMHA Ontario CEO Camille Quenneville delivered the afternoon keynote to chamber leaders from across the province.
On May 6, the OCC’s Health and Infrastructure Policy Councils met to explore opportunities for streamlining infrastructure development that further support the timely and cost-effective delivery of major infrastructure and healthcare projects in Ontario.
Introducing our 2025-26 Executive Committee! Your dedication, expertise and enthusiasm have been invaluable to the OCC, and we look forward to a great year ahead.
