HAY RIVER (June 3, 2019) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has introduced its plan to expand the manufacturing sector, identify potential areas of growth, promote and market products manufactured in the NWT and aid in the professional and technological advancement of the industry.
Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment Wally Schumann outlined the plan at a launch event for the NWT’s first Manufacturing Strategy in Hay River this morning.
This strategy is focused on four objectives:
- establishing a strong manufacturing association and sector;
- improving manufacturer access to information, services and capital;
- renewing the Northern Manufactured Products Policy; and
- growing the manufacturing sector.
A key feature of the Strategy is the collaborative approach that it will take. The NWT Manufacturers Association (NWTMA), involved in its development since the beginning, will continue to be partners in the implementation of the strategy.
To that end, support has already been provided to establish the NWT Manufacturing Association and position it to work with the GNWT. Annual reviews will be built into the Strategy’s implementation permitting the GNWT and NWTMA to make course adjustments where necessary.
The GNWT committed to delivering the Manufacturing Strategy in its Mandate 2016-2019.
“As someone who owned and ran a manufacturing business, I know firsthand the challenges our industry faces. It takes continual innovation and a lot of hard work. This strategy reflects the need to build upon the culture of innovation that already exists among our manufacturers today.”
Wally Schumann, Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Quick facts
- The NWT Manufacturing Strategy was developed with engagement and input from NWTMA, Chambers of Commerce, other government departments, and the public through open engagement sessions and stakeholder meetings.
- In 2017 the economic value of the manufacturing sector was $24.8 million — approximately 0.5 percent of the NWT’s GDP.
- The Strategy sets a goal of increasing manufacturing sales by 25 percent in its first three years; and a further 25 percent by the fifth year of its implementation.
- This Strategy complements other initiatives taken by the GNWT to enhance manufacturing in the NWT including the introduction of the NWT Diamond Policy Framework and funding for the Hay River fish processing plant.
Related links
- NWT Manufacturing Strategy
- NWT Manufacturers Association Discuss Strategy
- Five questions about the new Diamond Policy Framework
Media contact
Mike Westwick
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment
Mike_Westwick@gov.nt.ca
