October 6, 2020
Dear Members and Partners,
The coronavirus pandemic has completely changed the state of the global economy and of trade between Canada and the world. The ICCC is here to help you get through this difficult period, by supporting you and your international business strategies.
ITALY
ARTIFICIAL INTELIGENCE
Artificial intelligence, a Major Part in Italy’s Plan for the Recovery Fund
Artificial intelligence will be one of the main components of the Italian government’s plan for the recovery fund that will be presented to the European Union in order to obtain contributions by Next Generation EU, the support fund created to help the European countries most affected by the pandemic. COVID-19 has made the relevance and timeliness of digitization and AI issues even more evident. The sectors in which artificial intelligence can be utilized are numerous, from the healthcare system, to art, education and culture, and in the business sector as well. The aim is to define a national strategy to ensure that artificial intelligence, an essential tool for sustainable development in Italy and in Europe, becomes a priority. To learn more click here.
WINES
“Export Pact”: Establishment of a Working Committee Dedicated to Wine
An internationalization strategy will be set up shortly as part of an export pact to support Italian wines. According to the associazione di riferimento per il vino italiano, which will intervene on behalf of companies, it will be essential propose concrete actions to relaunch wine exports and in particular the urgent implementation of an institutional communication plan focused on priority markets to support wine tourism. Read more here.
CANADA
NEW MEASURES
“Red Zone”: new restrictive measures in Quebec
Several cities in Quebec – including Montreal and Quebec City – have now officially been classified as “red zones” (maximum alert). This enacts new restrictive measures from October 1, 2020 until October 28th, these measures include the closure of bars, restaurant dining rooms, performance halls, cinemas, theaters, libraries and museums. Activities organized in public spaces are now limited to 25 people in accordance with the rules of social distancing, and private meetings are now prohibited as well. With regard to restaurants, delivery and take-out orders are still authorized, as well as the sale of alcohol associated with a take-out or delivery meal (beer and wine only: no spirits or drinks made with spirits). To learn more, click here.
BARS AND RESTAURANTS
Emergency Aid for Bars and Restaurants
The Minister of the Economy and Innovation unveiled a plan to help bars, restaurants and reception halls located in the red zones and whose activities have greatly slowed down or even stopped as a result of the new restriction. The Aide aux entreprises en régions en alerte maximale (AERAM) program will cover 80% of a restaurant or bar’s expenses up to a maximum of $15,000 per month of restrictions. All restaurants, bars and reception halls in the red zone are eligible for this aide program, whether or not they offer delivery or take-out, however, proof of loss of income will be necessary. Learn more here.
ECONOMY
Throne Speech: Wage Subsidy Extended by One Year
The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) will be extended until the summer of 2021 to help businesses affected by the pandemic and to keep Canadians employed. This subsidy will then transition to employment insurance, which will become the only mechanism for obtaining financial assistance in the summer of 2021. During the Throne Speech, Governor General Julie Payette also announced that businesses will be supported by various other measures such as the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA). The federal government also wants to improve the Business Credit Availability Program and put in place other support measures, in particular for the travel and tourism industries, the hotel industry and the culture sector. Read more, here.
Our team remains dedicated to answer all your questions and to assist you.
We invite you to visit our website and social media platforms frequently for the latest updates.
Thank you for your continued trust and stay safe.
The ICCC Team
