Ontario economic policies must preserve supply chain efficiency, productivity, says Bradley

TORONTO (Feb. 28, 2002) — Ontario Trucking Association president David Bradley is calling on Ontario legislators to look beyond their own border as they develop a long-term strategy to keep the Ontario economically competitive.

Bradley, who spoke to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs at Queen’s Park yesterday as part of the consultations for the 2002 provincial budget, said the government needs to invest in transportation systems and develop policies that streamline the flow of freight, especially goods moving to and from the United States.

He said the impact on manufacturing following the Sept. 11 attacks illustrates the importance of cross-border trade and just-in-time production to the Ontario economy. Trucks are an extension of the manufacturing process, he warned, and U.S. businesses will move production elsewhere, notably Mexico, unless they feel assured that the province can ensure that productivity in the factory continues on the highway and at border points.

Trade with the United States accounts for at least one-third of provincial gross domestic product. Trucks haul about 74% of Ontario’s trade with the United States.