New federal bill aims to cut internal trade barriers and fast-track infrastructure projects as part of a strategy to build a stronger Canadian economy.
Ottawa Moves to Unify Trade and Accelerate Development
The Liberal government introduced sweeping new legislation on Friday designed to reduce internal trade barriers and dramatically speed up the approval process for major infrastructure projects across Canada. Titled the One Canadian Economy Act, the bill reflects Prime Minister Mark Carney’s promise to strengthen national economic unity and sovereignty.
New Legislation Targets Economic Fragmentation
The legislation aims to address longstanding inefficiencies in Canada’s domestic economy by streamlining regulatory approvals and recognizing provincial standards at the federal level. Carney described the bill as a dual-purpose measure: one that would “create one Canadian economy out of 13” and fast-track development critical to national growth and security.
Trade Barriers Reduced Through Standard Recognition
Under the act, provincial certifications for goods, services, and skilled labour will be accepted as equivalent to federal standards—but only for federally regulated projects. While this expands job opportunities and workforce mobility at the national level, it does not compel provinces to reciprocate, limiting immediate impacts on interprovincial labour movement.
Fast-Tracking Nation-Building Projects
The legislation introduces a “one-project, one-review” approach, slashing infrastructure project approval timelines from five years to two. Projects deemed “nation-building” will be prioritized based on their potential to boost prosperity, national security, and internal connectivity. These include railways, ports, pipelines, and clean energy infrastructure.
New Oversight Office and Indigenous Consultation
The government will establish a Major Projects Office as the central authority for guiding project applications through federal reviews. The office will work with provinces, Indigenous rights holders, and environmental regulators to ensure transparency and compliance. It will also include an Indigenous Advisory Council, though some leaders say the consultation process has already fallen short.
Indigenous Leaders Voice Concerns Over Consultation
Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation criticized the bill’s rollout, saying Indigenous groups received almost no advance notice. “They’re not off to a great start,” he said. AFN Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak echoed calls for deeper review, urging lawmakers not to rush the process.
Conservative Response: “Baby Steps” Not Enough
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called the bill a “small step” that falls short of eliminating provincial trade barriers. He urged the government to offer financial incentives to provinces and repeal laws that hinder energy development. His party will decide on support for the bill after caucus review next week.
Timeline and Sunset Clause
Projects approved under the act will be listed as eligible for streamlined processing, with the ability to add more over time. However, the bill includes a five-year sunset clause, meaning all provisions will expire unless renewed. Officials say this ensures regular reassessment of national infrastructure priorities.
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