Officials in Ontario and Michigan signed a new memorandum of understanding to improve the economies on both sides of the border.
The Economic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Premier Doug Ford and Governor Gretchen Whitmer during a virtual ceremony Tuesday morning.
The goal is to increase trade, attract investment, and encourage job creation.
“Ontario and Michigan share deep economic ties as partners, neighbours and friends,” said Premier Ford. “This agreement will help open even more opportunities to work together and drive further economic growth. As we navigate global uncertainty, now is the time to strengthen this important relationship to build our economies, further integrate our supply chains and create good-paying jobs on both sides of the border.”
Last year, $80.6 billion of trade passed through the Ontario and Michigan border.
Under the new agreement, the two jurisdictions will work together to identify opportunities for strategic partnership and joint trade promotion, improve access to information and facilitate more efficient border crossings.
“Canada was the top destination for Michigan exports last year, putting $27 billion into our economy and creating thousands of jobs across our state. Today’s Memorandum of Understanding will reaffirm our partnership and foster greater collaboration on trade, technology, cybersecurity, agriculture, and more. Let’s continue to work together to grow our economies, invest in our people, and usher in a bright future,” said Governor Whitmer.
Ontario is also pursuing agreements with other U.S. states to improve access to investment and government procurement opportunities in the U.S.
