Northern Premiers Call for Internal Trade Talks to Reflect Unique Territorial Realities
Canada’s territorial premiers are urging federal and provincial leaders to ensure internal trade negotiations take into account the distinct economic, geographic, and logistical challenges faced by northern communities. The call came following a joint statement from the premiers of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, who emphasized the need for more inclusive policymaking that recognizes the unique context of the North.
As discussions around the modernization of Canada’s Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT) and the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) continue, the northern leaders highlighted that a one-size-fits-all approach to trade policy fails to reflect the realities of operating in Canada’s remote and sparsely populated regions.
“We strongly believe that trade frameworks must recognize the distinct challenges and opportunities present in the North,” said Premier Ranj Pillai of Yukon. “This includes high transportation costs, infrastructure deficits, and the critical importance of inter-territorial trade to local economies.”
Premier P.J. Akeeagok of Nunavut echoed the sentiment, pointing out that limited road and rail access, dependence on seasonal supply routes, and reliance on air freight are realities that don’t apply in most southern provinces. “We’re not asking for exceptions—we’re asking for equity,” Akeeagok said. “Our economies are deeply interwoven with traditional livelihoods and community-based industries that require tailored support.”
The territorial leaders argue that internal trade agreements should support capacity-building in the North, facilitate easier movement of goods and services between territories and provinces, and foster Indigenous economic development. They also stress the importance of federal collaboration in improving infrastructure, including digital connectivity and year-round transportation networks.
Premier Caroline Cochrane of the Northwest Territories emphasized that simplifying interjurisdictional regulations could significantly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in northern Canada. “Businesses in the territories face higher barriers to entry and unique regulatory challenges that must be addressed if we are to foster a truly inclusive national economy,” Cochrane said.
The premiers’ collective stance adds pressure on Ottawa and provincial governments to recognize regional diversity within the framework of national trade. As Canada seeks to boost domestic economic resilience and reduce interprovincial barriers, the North’s contribution—and its challenges—are increasingly being pushed to the forefront.
Trade experts have noted that any long-term success of a reformed internal trade deal will depend on whether it is adaptable to regional differences. “The North is not just a frontier—it’s an economic engine with vast potential. But it needs tailored policies to unlock that potential,” said Dr. Michael LaPointe, a senior fellow in Canadian economic policy at the University of Calgary.
The northern premiers plan to continue advocating for a seat at the table in all trade reform discussions and have called for regular consultation mechanisms to ensure that the evolving agreements do not leave territorial economies behind.
Source : Swifteradio.com
