
The proposed changes would aim to prioritize Canadian suppliers for municipal purchases.
The City of Kingston is set to discuss new "Buy Canadian" measures on March 18, 2025, in response to ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.
The proposed changes to the Procurement Policy bylaw aim to prioritize Canadian suppliers for municipal purchases under $100,000, where the City has more discretion.
For larger contracts, a new policy could disqualify U.S. bidders using a clause that cites the U.S. failure to meet trade obligations. However, the City must still comply with international trade agreements.
Despite the challenges, most of Kingston’s purchases are already from Canadian suppliers.
City Council will review the measures at their meeting, next Tuesday, March 18th, 2025.