As Canadian manufacturers continue to navigate the pressures of global trade disruptions, the federal government is investing in businesses it sees as critical to the country’s long-term industrial resilience. In Roberval, Quebec, that support is taking the form of a $3 million repayable contribution to Gilbert Products, helping the company modernize its operations while strengthening its competitive position in international markets.
Announced by the Honourable Rachel Bendayan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED), the investment will help Gilbert Products reduce the impact of tariffs on its business while expanding its production capabilities.
A recognized leader in the design, manufacture and commercialization of forestry, sawmill and construction equipment, as well as track and snowmobile trail maintenance systems, Gilbert Products has built its Roberval facility around Industry 4.0 manufacturing standards. Through the federal contribution, the company will acquire and install advanced production technologies that will improve both productivity and manufacturing capacity.
The investment comes as Ottawa continues to emphasize structural measures aimed at strengthening Canada’s economy amid evolving global trade challenges. By supporting businesses in strategic sectors, the government hopes to improve supply chain resilience while helping Canadian manufacturers diversify into new markets.
Highlighting the broader objectives of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, Minister Mélanie Joly said, “Faced with the tariffs hitting our businesses and workers, our government is taking action. We are giving businesses tools to remain competitive, build stronger supply chains and pursue their growth on international markets. With the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, we are investing directly in the Quebec and Canadian economy to help our SMEs innovate, diversify their markets and come through this turbulence stronger than ever.”
Parliamentary Secretary Rachel Bendayan emphasized the importance of supporting regional manufacturers as they adapt to changing market conditions. “Our federal government is proud to support our manufacturing SMEs, since we know they are core to economic vitality in our regions. By investing to enable them to increase their productivity, modernize their facilities and conquer new markets, we are helping our businesses to remain competitive despite current trade challenges. The Roberval announcement is a testament to our willingness to provide concrete support for Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean businesses so they can continue to innovate, grow and create good jobs here in the region.”
For Gilbert Products, the investment represents more than new equipment—it accelerates the company’s long-term growth strategy. Audrey Gilbert, Director, Corporate Affairs and Communications, explained the impact of the project: “This investment marks a decisive step in our growth. Expanding our Fastems system and adding cutting-edge equipment will increase our production capacity considerably, during the day and in fully automated mode, while also enabling us to cut costs. CED’s support gives us the means to modernize more quickly, maintain the cashflow needed for our development and conquer new markets.”
With advanced automation, expanded production capacity and improved operational efficiency, Gilbert Products is positioning itself to compete more effectively despite today’s challenging global trade environment.
