Mayor’s Economic Response Team takes on tariffs with new measures

The City of London's Economic Response Team is formulating a strategy to offset local impact of tariffs through several economic stimuli.

London’s mayor is taking steps to respond to U.S. tariffs.

On Wednesday, Mayor Josh Morgan met with his London Economic Response Team (LERT) about local actions to protect jobs and build a more resilient and diversified economy.

Following the meeting, Morgan issued two Strong Mayor Directions to city staff that aim to remove barriers for local entrepreneurs and strengthen London’s role in domestic manufacturing.

The first mayoral direction would update London’s Industrial Land Development Strategy.

If approved by City Council, the changes would aim to attract manufacturers that produce goods currently imported from outside Canada.

“By identifying supply chain gaps and attracting strategic investment, we’re building a stronger, more self-sufficient economy for the future,” explained Morgan.

The initiative will be developed in collaboration with the London Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) and the senior levels of government.

The second mayoral direction seeks to modernize regulations around home-based businesses by removing barriers that limit their growth.

City Council will be asked to consider allowing home-based business owners to hire up to three employees who do not live in the home and also expand opportunities for home-based food production in accordance with provincial health regulations.

“Our small businesses are the backbone of London’s economy, and by removing outdated restrictions, we’re giving entrepreneurs more room to incubate, and scale up,” said LERT Co-Chair and Ward 7 Coun. Corrine Rahman. “These changes will help local businesses thrive, create jobs, and support families right here in our community.”

LERT has also worked to encourage London Hydro, Western University, Fanshawe College, and local school boards to review their purchasing policies to prioritize Canadian businesses and jobs.

Business Improvement Areas across the city have also pledged to do the same.

Furthermore, the London Economic Development Corporation has launched additional resources, including makeinlondon.ca, connecting businesses with local suppliers, financing, and advice.