CMA Applauds Marketing and Consumer Initiatives in Federal Budget

TORONTO, March 19, 2019 /CNW/ - The Canadian Marketing Association (CMA) today expressed support for the federal government's commitment to "build a strong country, and a strong economy that gives Canadians every chance at success," and for specific Budget 2019 initiatives that will help improve commerce and provide better outcomes for Canadians.

"We are pleased that the government is creating a Digital Democracy Project to counteract online disinformation," said CMA president and CEO John Wiltshire. "It is critical for Canadians to be able to differentiate between accurate and deceptive information."

The CMA also welcomed the investment in cyber security networks to expand research, development and commercialization partnerships between academia and the private sector and expand the pipeline of cyber security talent in the country.

"It is critical to safeguard the integrity of our institutions and infrastructure from cyber threats," Wiltshire said.

The CMA welcomed the government's intention to modernize regulatory frameworks to accommodate emerging technologies.

"A more user-friendly regulatory system and clearer guidance for the industry, along with the use of sandboxes and pilot programs for new products, will expand the reach of Canadian companies at home and abroad," Wiltshire stated.

Many initiatives in Budget 2019 include a marketing component, including more support for artists and cultural events to promote Canadian music, and funding for Destination Canada for a tourism marketing campaign to help Canadians discover lesser-known areas of the country.

"These initiatives reflect the important role of marketing in strengthening the economy and serving Canadians," Wiltshire noted. "Equally important is the government's intention to ensure that young Canadians can access work-integrated learning opportunities."

The budget confirms the government's commitment to continue the implementation of its Healthy Eating Strategy to help Canadians make informed and healthier food choices. The CMA supports the broad objectives of this strategy and is interested in collaborating with the government as it proceeds with this initiative.

As the voice of the marketing profession in Canada, we look forward to working with the government on measures designed to strengthen the economy and ensure Canadians are poised for success.

About the Canadian Marketing Association

The Canadian Marketing Association is the voice of the marketing profession in Canada. With over 400 members, we represent leaders across the corporate, not-for-profit, public, post-secondary and health sectors. We provide a forum for members to engage in thought-leadership discussions, participate in professional development offerings and contribute to an environment where consumers are protected and businesses can thrive. Our Chartered Marketer (CM) designation ensures that marketing professionals are highly qualified and up-to-date with best practices. We act as the primary advocate for marketing with governments and regulators. We champion self-regulatory standards, including a mandatory Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice and a series of guides to help marketers keep current and maintain high standards of professional conduct. Our members make a significant contribution to the economy through the sale of goods and services, investments in media and new marketing technologies, and by providing significant employment opportunities for Canadians.

SOURCE Canadian Marketing Association