The Great Lakes basin has proven to be an extremely valuable resource to the Canadian economy through several ventures. The basin is directly linked to numerous industries, all of which would be greatly impacted if the ecological state of the lakes were compromised. The Great Lakes contribute $13.8 billion to the Canadian economy every year through commercial, recreational and subsistence fishing, water use, water-based hunting, oil and gas, commercial navigation, recreational boating, beach / lakefront use, and wildlife viewing.

As Bighead and Silver Carp continue their persistent movement north through the Mississippi River basin, and Grass Carp threaten Canadian waters from the Western basin of Lake Erie, deterring their entry into the Great Lakes is crucial in order to maintain its ecological balance and associated financial value.

The following industries would experience severe economic impacts if Asian carps were to establish in the Great Lakes