Ontario is already on the move to sign reciprocal agreements with other provinces. This will allow for the freer movement of goods and services across all of Canada. This pilot project is an important step toward fulfilling Prime Minister Mark Carney’s promise to eliminate internal trade barriers by Canada Day. For the Ontario government, such a Bilateral Agreement would seek not only to build on successful deals struck with other provinces, but strengthen trade relations and co-operate economically.
The province is on record as recognizing the importance of more efficient processes that support faster, easier commerce across jurisdictions. Ontario’s efforts are the latest in a multi-province push to eliminate internal trade barriers that have long suppressed economic growth. By encouraging cooperative development with other provinces, Ontario seeks to pave the way for a more connected Canadian marketplace.
Wab Kinew, the leader of the Manitoba opposition, has commented on the importance of infrastructure projects in Western Canada, highlighting that “the politics are (that) something needs to get built in Western Canada. I think everybody understands that.” His comments highlight the need for more strategic development efforts to strengthen local and regional economies.
Kinew has emphasized the potential for multiple resource projects, stating, “Are we looking at oil and gas projects? Are we looking at something novel like green hydrogen or maybe a potash slurry? These are the things that we can signal to the private sector we’re open to having a discussion about.” This view reflects an openness to unconventional energy answers as well as a desire to drive economic development through infrastructure.
In addition to these projects, Kinew believes that Manitoba could play a pivotal role in transporting natural resources across Canada. He remarked, “And if you’ve been following the news, B. C.? Ontario? Maybe. We’ll see. But Manitoba’s open for business, and I think in time Manitoba will show itself as a path to getting natural resources to tidewater across Canada.” This declaration is in keeping with a strong and growing vision for Manitoba as the transportation hub of choice and trust in the national supply chain.
Ontario, for its part, is lobbying to improve those trade agreements. These efforts are essential for increasing its economy and deepening ties with other like-minded provinces to the west. If the province plays its cards right, it can reap considerable economic rewards. They additionally dovetail with the national priorities in favour of internal trade reform.
Stakeholders in health, transportation, and beyond are closely watching these efforts. They want to see how those trade agreements are going to influence the big picture economic playing field. This collaborative emphasis and the resource development it stems from shine a light on the direction of travel for a more interconnected Canadian economy.
