Calgary, AB – September 15, 2025 – As the federal government reconvenes for the Fall Session of Parliament, the Calgary Chamber of Commerce encourages the federal government to prioritize a legislative agenda grounded in competitiveness, affordability and long-term opportunity for Canadian businesses – of all sizes, sectors and across all regions of the country.
“We’re encouraged by the federal government’s renewed focus on the economy and progress on key initiatives, including a commitment to advancing major projects, expanding trade opportunities and promoting collaboration across jurisdictions,” says Ruhee Ismail-Teja, Vice President, Policy & External Affairs at the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. “At the same time, we have a long road ahead to achieving our country’s full economic potential. We are calling on the government to take bold, practical steps to unlock the full potential of Canada’s natural resources, create the conditions for businesses across all sectors to thrive and ensure fiscal discipline with spending is prioritized on investments that maximize our economic capacity as a nation.”
Specifically, we are calling for action to:
- Eliminate regulatory barriers to boost competitiveness, productivity and private investment. This includes withdrawing the proposed Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap, and repealing or significantly amending the Clean Electricity Regulations, oil tanker ban, Impact Assessment Act and anti-greenwashing rules in Bill C-59.
- Promote international trade diversification beyond the U.S. by expanding programs that connect Canadian businesses – and small businesses in particular – to global markets, particularly in light of tariff uncertainties.
- Ensure fiscal responsibility by balancing government spending with debt reduction – prioritizing investments over operational spending, reduced debt servicing costs and maintaining Canada’s AAA credit rating.
- Support entrepreneurs in a changing economy by reducing the small business tax rate, raising the small business tax threshold from $500,000 to $750,000, improving rural and remote connectivity and supporting adoption of technologies like AI.
- Address labour shortages by aligning immigration policies with market needs, ensuring businesses and newcomers are set up for success, and investing in the trades to ensure projects have access to the labour force needed to build Canada.
- Strengthen communities by increasing housing supply, enhancing public safety for businesses and investing in urban infrastructure. This includes working with all levels of government to expand housing starts, eliminate GST on specific housing types and create an Urban Infrastructure Renewal Fund to modernize transit, water systems, roads and utilities.
“We’re calling on the federal government to deliver tangible, immediate action that strengthens Canada’s business environment,” adds Ismail-Teja. “That means removing barriers to growth, investing in the conditions that allow businesses to succeed and delivering a policy environment that supports long-term prosperity across sectors and regions – including for small businesses. We remain committed to working with government to drive economic growth and expand opportunities for Canadian businesses.”
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About the Calgary Chamber of Commerce
The Calgary Chamber exists to empower our business community to advance a prosperous Calgary and Canada. As the convenor and catalyst for a vibrant, inclusive and prosperous business community, the Chamber works to build strength and resilience among its members and position Calgary as a magnet for talent, diversification and opportunity. As an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization founded in 1891, we build on our history to serve and advocate for businesses of all sizes, in all sectors across the city.
Media opportunities
For media inquiries, please contact: media@calgary-chamber.papercrane.ca
