It’s Time to Get Moving
Break Down Internal Trade Barriers and Strengthen Canada’s Economy
A Stronger, More United Canada Starts with Free Trade Between Provinces
With rising global trade tensions and unjustified U.S. tariffs threatening Canadian exports, it’s more important than ever to strengthen our own economy. Yet, businesses still face unnecessary barriers when trading across provincial borders—hurting growth, raising costs, and limiting opportunities.
What Are Internal Trade Barriers?
Internal trade barriers occur when provinces have conflicting or duplicate regulations, making it harder for businesses to expand nationwide.
These barriers:
Increase costs for businesses and consumers Slow down economic growth by restricting competition Discourage investment in Canadian industries
Shockingly, it’s often easier for Canadian businesses to trade internationally than across our own provinces. This outdated system holds back our economy at a time when we need to be more competitive than ever.
Why Internal Trade Barriers Hurt Canadian Businesses and Consumers
Higher Prices and Fewer Choices
When businesses must navigate different provincial rules for licensing, labeling, and certification, they face extra compliance costs. These costs get passed down to consumers—leading to higher prices and fewer options on everyday goods, from groceries to construction materials.
Fewer Growth Opportunities for Businesses
Small businesses and entrepreneurs struggle to scale when each province has its own complex regulations. Instead of growing within Canada, many businesses look to expand internationally first—hurting local job creation and innovation.
The Solution: Mutual Recognition
Provinces should adopt mutual recognition, meaning that if a product or service meets the standards in one province, it should be accepted in all others. This simple change would:
Cut unnecessary costs and delays
Help businesses expand
and create jobs
Lower prices and improve choices for consumers
The Economic Benefits of Removing Internal Trade Barriers
Billions in Economic Growth: Studies estimate that eliminating internal trade barriers could add billions to Canada’s GDP—unlocking new opportunities for businesses and workers.
Lower Prices for Canadians: With fewer regulatory hurdles, businesses can operate more efficiently, leading to lower costs for consumers.
A Stronger, More Competitive Canada: At a time when external trade relationships are uncertain, we must strengthen our domestic market. Freeing up internal trade will drive innovation, create jobs, and boost competitiveness.
Now Is the Time to Act
Outdated and unnecessary trade barriers are holding Canada back. By working together to remove them, we can build a more unified, competitive, and prosperous country—where businesses can thrive and consumers benefit from lower costs.
Let’s break down these barriers and unlock Canada’s full economic potential.
