The Government of Canada has expanded its Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) to help SMEs withstand trade disruptions caused by tariffs and supply chain challenges. Funding has been doubled from CAD $450 million to CAD $1 billion over three years. The initiative will assist SMEs in diversifying export markets, boosting productivity, and strengthening supply chains. Program details and applications will be available from 15 September 2025.
This is a model of how targeted state support can help SMEs adapt to external shocks while building long-term competitiveness. For India, it raises questions about whether similar schemes under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and Ministry of MSME could be designed to cushion firms against global trade volatility.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can India design responsive support mechanisms for SMEs to withstand trade disruptions, while simultaneously helping them diversify and modernise?
Follow the full news here: https://www.canada.ca/en/pacific-economic-development/news/2025/09/government-of-canada-launches-initiative-to-keep-small--and-medium-sized-businesses-growing-in-the-face-of-trade-challenges.html
