P.E.I. and Ontario partner to reduce trade barriers

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz to sign a Memorandum of Understanding that strengthens both provinces’ commitment to eliminating barriers to interprovincial trade. (Source: Government of P.E.I.)

Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz and Ontario Premier Doug Ford will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to reduce internal trade barriers.

The agreement was signed at the First Ministers Meeting in Saskatoon and builds P.E.I.’s Interprovincial Trade and Mobility Act and Ontario’s Protect Ontario Through Free Trade Within Canada.

The MOU will reduce red tape, recognize equivalent standards, improve mobility for workers and create opportunities for economic growth in both provinces, a news release from the government of P.E.I. said.

“Prince Edward Island may be Canada’s smallest province, but we are punching well above our weight,” Lantz said. “With our reciprocal Interprovincial Trade and Mobility Act, we’re not just keeping pace – we are setting the standard and securing our future. Together, we’re proving that when provinces work together, the whole country moves forward.”

Ford said the MOU comes at a critical time to improve interprovincial trade.

“With President Trump threatening our economy, there’s never been a more important time to boost internal trade and cooperation between provinces,” said Ford. “By signing these agreements and working together, we’re helping Canada unlock up to $200 billion in economic potential and standing shoulder to shoulder to protect the future of Canadian workers across the country, not just in Ontario.”

The agreement signals a commitment to continue building the relationship between the two provinces and enhance collaboration across the country, the news release said.

The annual value of trade in goods and services between Ontario and P.E.I. is over $1.5 billion.

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