Ontario Marks International Francophonie Day with Focus on Francophone Economic Contributions

TORONTO  — Ontario is recognizing the International Day of La Francophonie by highlighting the growing economic and cultural influence of the province’s French-speaking community.

In a statement issued Thursday, Caroline Mulroney, Ontario’s Minister of Francophone Affairs, praised the contributions of more than 30,000 Francophone-owned businesses across the province. “Francophone Ontarians are a vital part of the province’s prosperity and play an integral role in our social, cultural and economic fabric,” she said.

Ontario, which holds Observer status in the Organisation internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), reported nearly $30 billion in trade with OIF member states in 2024. The province sees this partnership as key to expanding global opportunities for Francophone entrepreneurs and businesses.

This year’s theme for International Francophonie Day is “I educate myself therefore I act.” Mulroney noted that the Ontario government continues to support French-language education and economic development, positioning youth and businesses for long-term success.

Francophones make up about five percent of Ontario’s population, and the community is growing—especially in cities like Ottawa, Sudbury, and Toronto, where French-speaking newcomers continue to settle.

International Francophonie Day is celebrated globally each year on March 20.