Rae Announces $2.2M to Protect Tariff-Impacted Workers and Businesses in Stratford

December 5, 2025

[Stratford, ON] – Today, Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington, announced $2,200,000 in funding for a local manufacturing company, Aisin Canada Inc. (ACI) through the Ontario Together Trade Fund (OTTF). The investment will create 30 new, good-paying jobs and protect 530 positions in Stratford.

“The unjustified U.S. tariffs have directly impacted our local manufacturers, and I am proud to see our government taking action to protect these businesses and good paying jobs,” said MPP Rae. “This investment, by both Aisin and the Government of Ontario, will strengthen our local manufacturing community and solidifies our government’s commitment to protect Ontario and our communities.”

Through this investment, Aisin Canada is investing $11,100,000 to purchase new equipment that will support their newly awarded Lexus NX panoramic sunroof production program from Toyota, which is slated to start production in December 2026. The project is expected to diversify their existing products and reshore panoramic sunroof production from Japan to Ontario, making them the first manufacturer outside of Japan to do so. Additionally, this investment in their production capabilities could be modified for future programs beyond the Lexus NX.

First announced as part of the 2025 Ontario Budget,the OTTF is part of the province’s nearly $30 billion tariff relief and support plan, dedicated to protecting the province’s workers and businesses from economic uncertainty and building a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy. With a focus on small and medium-sized enterprises, the program will help businesses across a diverse range of sectors make the necessary investments to strengthen operations in Ontario, expand market reach and protect workers.

Since its launch, the OTTF has received overwhelming demand, with more than 140 applications submitted as of October 2025. In response to this, the government recently announced an additional $100 million investment into the program, bringing the total funding to $150 million over three years. The increased support will enable businesses affected by U.S. tariffs to return production to Ontario, identify new sales opportunities and expand interprovincial trade.

“This funding is a critical step forward for us. It will allow Aisin to localize production that is currently based in Japan, ensuring we maintain economic stability here in Stratford. By doing so, we are not only preventing potential layoffs but also creating new job opportunities for our community,” said Wayne Robert, President of Aisin Canada Inc. “Despite the challenges posed by current tariff threats, Aisin remains committed to investing in the Stratford plant. This grant reinforces that commitment and, strengthens our ability to grow and contribute to the local economy, while supporting families and communities. Thank you again for the partnership and confidence in Aisin. Together, we are building a stronger future for Stratford and for Ontario.”

“As U.S. tariffs continue to threaten Ontario’s critical industries, our government remains focused on ensuring our businesses have the resources needed to adapt and expand,” said Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “By investing in Aisin Canada Inc. through the Ontario Together Trade Fund, we are taking decisive action to enhance the competitiveness of our economy and increasing opportunities for Ontario businesses and workers, now and for generations to come.”

As Ontario continues to navigate the impact of U.S. tariffs and global economic uncertainty, the government remains focused on delivering critical funding, cutting red tape, unleashing the economy, and supporting workers.

QUICK FACTS

The Ontario Together Trade Fund is a part of Ontario’s broader strategy to support advanced manufacturing and trade-impacted communities, launched or enhanced as part of the 2025 Ontario Budget, including the Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit, the Protect Ontario Financing Program and the Trade-Impacted Communities Program.

Through the OTTF, the government is also providing complementary supports and services to help businesses navigate regulatory requirements, connect with skilled talent and access government programs that accelerate project success.
Open to Ontario-based businesses investing a minimum of $200,000, eligible projects include modification of existing products to enter new sectors, procurement of advanced equipment and facility modification to enhance domestic manufacturing and sales expansion.

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