TORONTO — Doug Ford marked the start of the Lunar New Year with a message recognizing the cultural and economic contributions of Asian communities across Ontario, highlighting their role in strengthening the province’s economy and social fabric.
In a statement released Tuesday from the Premier’s Office, Ford extended greetings to those celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse, emphasizing themes of optimism, action and shared prosperity.
“Today marks the beginning of the new year in the Lunar Calendar. Across Ontario and the world, many Asian communities will be welcoming in the Year of the Fire Horse. The Fire Horse symbolizes hope, progress and reward in the year ahead for those who take action.
Lunar New Year is a special time to come together with family and friends, share meals and celebrate traditions such as lantern festivals, cultural performances and firework displays.
It’s also a chance to celebrate the many contributions that Asian communities make to our province every day, helping make Ontario the best place in the world to live, work and raise a family.
On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I wish everyone celebrating a happy, healthy and prosperous Year of the Fire Horse!”
The Lunar New Year, observed by millions globally, is one of the most significant annual celebrations for many Asian cultures, including Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese communities. In Ontario, where major urban centres such as Toronto and Markham are home to large and diverse Asian populations, the holiday is marked by festivals, business events and family gatherings that can also provide an economic boost to local retailers, restaurants and tourism operators.
Business organizations have long pointed to the importance of Asian Canadian entrepreneurs to Ontario’s economic growth. Asian-owned businesses operate across sectors ranging from manufacturing and technology to retail and financial services, contributing to job creation and international trade ties.
Ford’s message aligns with broader provincial efforts to strengthen economic connections with Asian markets. Ontario maintains trade relationships with several countries in the Asia-Pacific region, and successive governments have promoted investment partnerships, export opportunities and immigration as key drivers of growth.
The premier’s statement did not outline specific policy initiatives but underscored the government’s recognition of the role diverse communities play in economic and social development.
Lunar New Year celebrations in Ontario often include public events that draw thousands of visitors, supporting local commerce. Cultural festivals and performances help generate revenue for small businesses, event organizers and hospitality providers, particularly in neighbourhoods with strong Asian cultural roots.
The timing of the message also reflects the increasing prominence of Lunar New Year as a widely recognized observance across Canada. Public institutions, schools and corporations have increasingly acknowledged the holiday in recent years, reflecting the country’s growing cultural diversity and the economic importance of immigrant communities.
Ontario remains Canada’s largest provincial economy, with growth closely linked to immigration, entrepreneurship and international trade. Asian communities represent a significant share of new immigrants to the province, contributing skills, investment and global connections that support economic expansion.
Ford’s statement focused on unity and shared celebration, while also reinforcing the province’s positioning as a destination for business and families.
As Lunar New Year events unfold across Ontario, business leaders and community organizations are expected to continue hosting cultural and networking events, reinforcing both economic and cultural ties.
For many businesses, the holiday period offers an opportunity not only to celebrate heritage but also to strengthen commercial relationships and community engagement — key elements in Ontario’s diverse and globally connected economy.
The Year of the Fire Horse, as Ford noted, is associated with action and reward — themes that resonate in a province looking to sustain growth amid evolving economic conditions.