Ontario signs deals with Saskatchewan, P.E.I. and Alberta to reduce trade barriers
Amid the current economic uncertainty in Canada, particularly due to U.S. tariffs, the Ontario government has taken significant steps towards reducing trade barriers among provinces. Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently signed memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Prince Edward Island in Saskatoon, with the aim of fostering better trade relationships and boosting the Canadian economy.
These agreements come as a response to the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canada’s economy, with Ford emphasizing the importance of standing up for free trade within the country. By signing these MOUs, Ontario aims to mitigate the effects of the tariffs and promote economic growth within the provinces.
The MOUs with Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick, signed earlier this year, laid the groundwork for these recent agreements. Ford highlighted the importance of increasing the standard of living, improving investor confidence, and facilitating the free movement of skilled workers between provinces.
In a joint news conference with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, Ford stressed the significance of reducing barriers to internal trade to build a more competitive and self-reliant Canadian economy. Moe echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to prioritize removing barriers that hinder the flow of trade and professionals across Canada.
The MOUs contain provisions for mutual recognition of goods, workers, and investments between Ontario and the other provinces, with a focus on strengthening their respective economies and enhancing the Canadian economy as a whole. The agreements also aim to improve interprovincial labor mobility and implement a direct-to-consumer sales system for alcohol to expand market opportunities across the country.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz expressed their support for the agreements, highlighting the benefits of a more open and competitive economy that facilitates business growth and cross-provincial collaboration. According to the Ontario government, 35% of Canada’s trade occurs within its borders, underscoring the importance of reducing internal trade barriers.
The agreements come at a crucial time when the U.S. has imposed tariffs on Canadian exports, steel, aluminum, and automobiles. With the threat of further tariffs looming, these MOUs represent a united effort to strengthen Canada’s economy and protect it from external pressures.
Overall, the MOUs signed by Ontario with Saskatchewan, Alberta, and P.E.I. mark a significant step towards enhancing trade relations, promoting economic growth, and fostering a more unified Canadian economy. The agreements reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers and creating a more prosperous future for all provinces involved.
