Ont. signs new free trade agreements with B.C., Yn., Nvt., and N.W.T.

HUNTSVILLE — The Premiers of Ontario, British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut announce the signing of two new Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to boost internal trade, improve labour mobility and tear down barriers to doing business between provinces and territories. This included an MOU between Ont. and B.C. and a second MOU between Ont., Yn., Nvt., and N.W.T.

“With President Trump’s ongoing threats to our economy, there’s never been a more important time to boost internal trade to build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy,” said Ont. Premier Doug Ford. “By signing these MOUs and working together, we’re helping Canada unlock up to $200 billion in economic potential and standing shoulder to shoulder to protect Canadian workers across the country.”

To support this work, the Ont. government recently passed the Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada Act.

“When Ont. and B.C. team up to knock down trade barriers, it’s good for workers, it’s good for businesses and it’s good for the people of both provinces,” said B.C. Premier David Eby. “Between our provinces, we have more than half of the population of the country. This agreement is key to unlocking one Canadian economy.”

“This agreement between Ont. and the territories is about making it easier for people, goods and ideas to move across the country,” said Yn. Premier Mike Pemberton. “It’s an important step in reducing barriers and expanding opportunities for workers, businesses and communities in the North — building on progress we’ve already made. By working together, we’re helping ensure that the territories, including the Yukon, can fully participate in and contribute to Canada’s economy.”

“For the North to reach its full economic potential, we need to reduce the barriers that make it harder for our people and businesses to connect with the rest of the country — and for them to connect with us,” said N.W.T. Premier R.J. Simpson. “This agreement is a step toward that: supporting labour mobility, streamlining certification and opening up new opportunities for Northerners. It reflects a shared commitment to building a more open, connected and resilient Canadian economy.”

“This MOU is a strategic opportunity for Nunavut to enhance labour mobility, reduce trade barriers and strengthen our economic ties with other jurisdictions,” said Nvt. Premier P.J. Akeeagok. “It positions Nunavut to be a more connected and competitive player in Canada’s economy.”