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Ontario has announced a proposal that’s looking at better ways to protect the province and boost its economic potential.
The framework is being built under the Special Economic Zones Act (2025), which will give criteria for designating zones to progress economic activities while meeting safety and environmental standards, says a release from the province.
“In the face of global economic uncertainty, our government has a mandate from the people to build the most competitive economy in the G7,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.
“Special Economic Zones are a critical tool to expedite approvals and move projects of strategic importance forward faster, boosting our economic resilience and delivering lasting prosperity for Ontario workers and businesses.”
The release adds that the zones will provide a “predictable and stable environment for investment and growth.”
The province says the draft criteria is informed by communication with Indigenous communities and will continue to take feedback from Indigenous peoples as it evolves.
They say over 130 Indigenous communities have been consulted regarding the proposal.
“We look forward to continuing consultations with Indigenous communities and organizations on proposed changes to the Ontario Heritage Act (OHA),” said Graham McGregor, Minister of Citizenship and Multiculturalism.
“Feedback on the OHA archaeology exemption criteria will help protect important archaeological sites while providing the clarity needed to attract investment, protect good-paying jobs, and strengthen Ontario’s economy by making Ontario the fastest permitting jurisdiction in North America.”
The full details of the proposed new regulation can be found here.
