Ontario signs Atlantic deals, unveils new interprovincial trade legislation [Video]

The Ford government is set to table its first piece of new legislation on Wednesday, which it promises will begin the process of removing interprovincial trade barriers across the country.

During its speech from the throne, the government said it would make removing trade barriers between provinces its “first order of business” following a snap winter election.

Premier Doug Ford announced the legislation on Wednesday, backed by New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt and Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston. The pair are signing free trade agreements with Ontario to “bolster” the movement of goods and services between the three provinces.

Ontario estimates interprovincial trade barriers cost the Canadian economy $200 billion per year and lower GDP by almost eight per cent. The lower end of that estimate, the premier said, would be four per cent.

The Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act, 2025, is expected to be tabled on Wednesday afternoon.