Canada earns top CFIB grade for internal trade reforms

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Canada earns top CFIB trade grade

Highlights

Canadian Federation of Independent Business awarded the federal government an A+ in its 2026 State of Internal Trade report for reducing interprovincial trade barriers.
The federal adoption of the One Canadian Economy Act, Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, and full removal of federal exceptions from the Canadian Free Trade Agreement streamline cross-jurisdiction business operations.
The Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on the Sale of Goods, fully implemented on January 1, 2026, and new interprovincial initiatives are expected to enhance supply chains and competitiveness for Canadian businesses.

Federal measures behind the top grade

As reported by Government of Canada, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business gave the federal government an A+ in its 2026 State of Internal Trade: Canada’s Interprovincial Cooperation Report Card for actions taken over the past year to reduce interprovincial trade barriers.

The report cites several federal steps, including the adoption of the One Canadian Economy Act, the implementation of the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, and the removal of all remaining federal exceptions from the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. Together, these measures are intended to cut red tape, make it easier for businesses and workers to operate across jurisdictions, and support productivity, economic growth and competitiveness.

Broader impact for business and supply chains

The CFIB also points to joint work by federal, provincial and territorial governments, including the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on the Sale of Goods, which the federal government fully implemented on January 1, 2026. Other highlighted measures include an interprovincial trucking memorandum of understanding, a new financial services chapter under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, and the launch of the Domestic Trade Commissioners Network for small and medium-sized businesses.

These initiatives are designed to improve the movement of goods, reduce duplicative regulatory requirements and help firms find customers, suppliers and partners within Canada. The federal government says more work remains, particularly in housing, construction and agrifood, while provinces and territories are expected in the coming months to implement agreements on trucking and direct-to-consumer alcohol sales.

Our earlier article on the India–UK trade pact taking effect outlined how the agreement lowers tariffs and widens access for goods and services on both sides, including procurement opportunities and phased openings in areas such as autos and financial services. It also highlighted provisions easing mobility for professionals, including social security relief for eligible Indian workers in the UK, alongside key figures on bilateral trade flows and sector beneficiaries.

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