In a significant move to strengthen Canada’s internal economy and respond to rising economic pressures from U.S. trade actions, the Governments of Ontario and Saskatchewan have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at reducing interprovincial trade barriers and improving the free flow of workers, goods, and services between the two provinces.
The agreement was signed in Saskatoon by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, ahead of the First Ministers’ meeting. It reflects a growing national push among provinces to break down regulatory walls and unlock domestic economic potential.
“This is about protecting Ontario, protecting Canada, and standing up for free trade within our own borders,” said Premier Doug Ford. “With rising U.S. tariffs under President Trump threatening jobs and investment, we must build a more competitive, resilient, and self-reliant Canadian economy. This agreement is about defending our industries, boosting investor confidence, and ensuring that our most in-demand workers can move freely to meet labour needs.”
Ontario has already signed similar MOUs with Prince Edward Island, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Sunday’s signing in Saskatoon with Premier Moe marks the latest step in a coordinated interprovincial effort to reduce duplication, recognize equivalent standards, and open new markets across Canada.
Premier Scott Moe emphasized the strategic importance of this agreement for economic growth and national unity.
“It shouldn’t be easier to trade with other countries than between our own provinces,” Moe said. “This agreement recognizes mutual standards for goods and workers, removes trade frictions, and strengthens both of our provincial economies. We’re proud to work with Ontario in showing that action—not just talk—is possible when provinces collaborate with purpose.”
The MOU includes commitments to:
- Mutual recognition of goods, services, certifications, and workers deemed acceptable in either province.
- Improved labour mobility, enabling professionals to work across provincial lines without unnecessary regulatory barriers.
- Support for direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, to expand choice for consumers and market access for producers.
- Streamlining regulations to attract investment while maintaining public safety and respecting the role of Crown corporations.
The premiers noted that with inflationary pressures and growing trade uncertainty abroad, internal economic cooperation is more vital than ever. The agreement is seen as both a practical step toward a more unified Canadian economy and a strong signal to international markets of Canada’s internal cohesion.
Ford concluded by saying, “We’re building an economy that works for Canadians by working with Canadians.”