Canada’s first ministers are tearing down internal trade hurdles to shore up the nation’s economy as U.S. tariffs tighten the screws. Meeting amid a brewing trade storm, the premiers and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to unshackle goods, services, and workers across provinces.
“All first ministers are on board—it’s time to turbocharge our market and let Canadians trade freely,” the Prime Minister’s Office declared. The move follows a rocky week in Canada-U.S. relations, sparked by Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian goods—slapped on March 4—met with Canada’s own 25% counterpunch on $155 billion in U.S. products, starting with $30 billion now and $125 billion in a month.
The leaders blasted internal barriers as cash-drains for businesses and shoppers, stunting growth despite past tweaks. A big fix? Letting certified pros work anywhere in Canada without red tape. The Committee on Internal Trade and Labour Market Ministers got their marching orders: deliver a coast-to-coast credential plan by June 1.
Trudeau’s called Trump’s tariffs “dumb,” while Ontario’s Doug Ford insists on zero U.S. levies or bust. Trump tossed automakers a 30-day tariff timeout, but Canada’s premiers aren’t waiting—they’re betting on a beefed-up home market. “Every Canadian should get Canadian goods, no matter where they stand,” the PMO stressed.