Business must stay competitive to grow our economy. For greater productivity, companies can upgrade equipment and worker training, construct buildings, and fund research and development.
Unfortunately, Maritime companies have been investing less. In 2006, they spent over 1300 dollars for every Maritimer on commercial and industrial buildings. Today, they spend just 600.
Less investment indicates decreased export demand, which in turn suggests slower economic growth for our region.
Government can’t fix this problem by spending more money. Instead, we need better public policies to improve the investment environment. By lowering taxes, eliminating subsidies, and reforming regulations, the Maritime Provinces would be a safer place for business to invest.