Brockville backs ‘Canada Preferred’ policy

Here’s what it means for suppliers

Brockville council has approved a new purchasing policy giving preference to Canadian suppliers.

The revised procurement policy, passed without discussion, was developed in response to past U.S. tariffs on Canadian products. 

While largely symbolic, the “Canada Preferred” policy aims to prioritize Canadian goods and services while following trade agreements.

Under the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Brockville can favor Canadian suppliers for purchases under $340,600 and construction projects under $8.5 million. 

New language in the policy allows the city to rank proposals based on Canadian value.

The changes also add “Canadian value-added criteria” to requests for proposals below CETA thresholds.

Officials say Brockville does little direct business with U.S. firms, but the policy reinforces support for local and national suppliers. The move aligns with Canada’s Free Trade Agreement, ensuring compliance while strengthening domestic purchasing priorities.