Ottawa: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced a sweeping new initiative to fast-track large-scale infrastructure plan aimed at strengthening Canada’s economy in response to fresh U.S. trade tariffs.
Following what he described as a ‘very productive’ meeting with Canada’s provincial and territorial leaders, Carney said his government will begin drafting legislation to accelerate approvals for nation-building projects including pipelines, nuclear reactors, and trade corridors within a two-year window.
Carney stated that, “This meeting demonstrated how we can give ourselves far more than any foreign government can take away,” in a clear reference to U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminium, and autos. New levies are set to double to 50 percent.
The prime minister’s plan will prioritise projects that boost the economy, enhance national security, and diversify Canada’s export markets. Carney remarked that, “The goal is to make Canada the strongest economy in the G7.”
Projects eligible for fast-tracking must meet stringent criteria: they must deliver undeniable economic benefits, be environmentally sustainable, be viable for completion, and carry strong support from Indigenous communities. Examples include ports, highways, airports, clean energy developments, and Arctic infrastructure meant to solidify Canada’s northern sovereignty with rising global interest in the region.
Carney said proposals can come from provincial governments or the private sector, though he declined to name which provinces have already submitted candidates.
The premiers appeared unified after the meeting — Carney’s first since his April election win. Ontario Premier Doug Ford called it ‘the best meeting we’ve had in 10 years,’ while Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who had previously clashed with the former Trudeau government, said she was encouraged by Carney’s approach.
Still, tensions may lie ahead over more contentious projects like oil and gas pipelines. Meanwhile, some First Nations leaders have voiced concern over the plan’s potential to bypass Indigenous rights, urging Ottawa to clarify how Indigenous voices will be involved.
As Canada braces for heightened trade tensions, Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc is heading to Washington for renewed talks with U.S. officials. Carney said the federal government will proceed with its infrastructure strategy regardless of U.S. actions.
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