Ottawa, provinces agree to open the tap on Canadian booze

Ottawa has struck a deal with the majority of provinces to facilitate the free flow of Canadian alcohol across the country, just as the United States imposes tariffs on liquor imports. This initiative is part of a broader effort by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to inject $200 billion into the Canadian economy in response to the impact of U.S. tariffs.

Internal Trade Minister Anita Anand hailed the agreement as an unprecedented move to reduce trade barriers within Canada. She emphasized the importance of Canada taking bold and united action in the face of unjustified U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods. All provinces, with the exception of P.E.I. and Newfoundland and Labrador, have agreed to eliminate obstacles that hinder the sale of their alcohol in other jurisdictions.

The provincial governments are expected to finalize the agreement framework in the coming weeks, paving the way for increased Canadian alcohol sales across the country. Anand expressed optimism that consumers would soon be able to purchase B.C. wine in Ottawa as trade barriers are dismantled.

In addition to the alcohol trade agreement, federal, provincial, and territorial governments are working towards implementing Canada-wide credential recognition for all professions. Following a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, the first ministers instructed the committee on Internal Trade to develop a plan for recognizing certified professionals nationwide by June 1.

The new credential recognition plan will ensure that professionals can practice their trade across Canada, regardless of where they obtained their credentials. Quebec is supportive of the initiative, although the province may implement the measures differently due to linguistic considerations. The premiers are also initiating negotiations to streamline the process of buying and selling goods certified in one province in another without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, excluding food products.

Furthermore, provinces and territories are reassessing their exceptions under the Canada Free Trade Agreement to identify and eliminate barriers that hinder trade and economic growth. Ottawa has already removed more than half of the remaining federal exceptions, signaling a commitment to fostering trade and opportunity across the country.

Overall, these initiatives aim to boost internal trade, support economic recovery, and strengthen Canada’s resilience in the face of external challenges. By removing barriers and promoting mutual recognition of credentials, the federal, provincial, and territorial governments are working together to create a more integrated and prosperous Canadian economy.