Canada's premiers convened in Ottawa on Wednesday, projecting a united front despite ongoing disagreements regarding interprovincial trade and energy policies. The meeting, held at the Andaz Ottawa Byward Market Hotel, precedes a highly anticipated discussion with Prime Minister Mark Carney. Prince Edward Island Premier Bloyce Thompson, chair of the Council of the Federation, is hosting the 2026 Winter Meeting.
The premiers face the challenge of balancing regional interests with national unity, particularly as Canada navigates the renegotiation of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Internal disputes, such as disagreements between Alberta and British Columbia over pipeline projects and concerns about Ontario's trade policies, add complexity to the discussions. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has been vocal about his opposition to U. S. tariffs and his commitment to protecting the Canadian economy.
Discussions also addressed the reduction of interprovincial trade barriers, which the International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates cost the Canadian economy billions annually. The IMF suggests that removing these barriers could significantly boost Canada's GDP. Sectors like health care, education, finance, transportation and telecommunications face some of the highest internal tariffs. While the federal government has taken steps to address the issue, provinces retain control over key regulations.
The northern premiers emphasized the need for federal support for infrastructure development in the territories, highlighting the North's strategic importance and resource wealth. Northwest Territories Premier R J Simpson stated, "The territories are not provinces. If we want new infrastructure, we need the federal government". Collaboration on a Western Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy was also on the agenda, aiming to position Canada as a global hub for critical minerals.
