TORONTO — Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, issued this statement following today’s monthly employment release by Statistics Canada that showed employment in Ontario increased by 32,700 jobs in April 2023.
“Employment in Ontario has increased for seven straight months as we continue to attract significant investments that create good-paying jobs for workers across the province. We continue to lead the nation in job creation, with more than 600,000 jobs added to the province since 2018.
By taking a targeted and responsible approach, we’re able to support people and businesses today, while also setting Ontario up for long-term success. We’re training a world-class workforce, cutting red tape and keeping taxes low, all of which will ensure that Ontario remains competitive and that companies of all sizes can continue to grow and create more jobs.
Over the last two and a half years, Ontario has attracted over $25 billion in automotive and EV battery related investments, including a $7 billion investment from Volkswagen to build their first overseas EV battery manufacturing facility in St. Thomas. The plant will create up to 3,000 direct jobs and up to 30,000 indirect jobs in St. Thomas and across the nation.
We’ve also attracted over $3 billion in investments from the life sciences sector and global biomanufacturers — the most recent being a multi-million-dollar investment from Moderna to partner with Novocol Pharma, an Ontario-based manufacturer.
Ontario’s strength in the manufacturing sector is recognized around the world. Through initiatives like the Regional Development Program, our government is helping local manufacturers like Takumi Stamping Canada Inc. and EDGE Automation continue to grow and create more good-paying jobs. Eligible companies can now apply for the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund and the Eastern Ontario Development Fund.
Together, we’re building a strong Ontario, while laying a strong foundation for the future.”