Canada’s manufacturing sector has weathered many storms, but today’s economic terrain has put the industry at a crossroads that will likely shape it for years to come. Global supply chain disruptions and rising protectionism have made it clear: Canada needs to chart a new course and invest in itself.
The federal government’s recent push for large-scale infrastructure projects through Bill C-5 is exactly the kind of bold, forward-thinking policy this country needs right now. Breaking down long-standing interprovincial trade barriers—many of which have historically hurt economic output—is finally a serious conversation, and it is overdue.
However, not all infrastructure investments are created equal. If Canadians are going to invest their taxpayer dollars in these efforts, new projects should be those that open new markets and strengthen our export potential, ensuring long-term economic security.
The Port of Churchill in Manitoba is one such example. As the only deepwater seaport in the Western hemisphere with direct access to the Arctic Ocean and a direct link to the continental rail network, the proposed $175-million investment would transform the Arctic into a viable trade hub. The port would grant greater access to new markets and promote stronger development of the north.
Similarly, the Ring of Fire mining corridor in Northern Ontario—long a dream of the mining industry—could unlock critical minerals like lithium, nickel, and cobalt deposits, positioning Canada as a leader in the global clean technology supply chain.
And while a West-East oil pipeline would require significant upfront investment, it would enhance Canada’s energy security by reducing dependence on the American market and create direct access to offshore buyers eager for the energy resources our country has to offer. And importantly, it has strong public support.
How can these projects go from long-held ambitions to reality?
The good news: due to Ottawa’s recent elimination of interprovincial barriers in the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, construction companies can now bid on government contracts and large-scale builds nationwide without battling conflicting provincial regulations. With easier procurement processes, it will be easier to take on the kind of nation-building projects that define competitive economies.
The bad news: there is a shortage of skilled workers to get these projects across the finish line. According to BuildForce Canada, the construction industry is projected to face a shortfall of 108,300 workers by 2034.
However, with federal investment, these barriers can be overcome. Due to mounting trade pressures, Canadians have no choice but to make the investments that should have been made decades ago. By breaking down interprovincial barriers, building strategic infrastructure, and developing our skilled workforce, this country can lay the foundation for its long-term competitive economic strength.
The type of nation-building projects that are pushed ahead today will determine whether our nation emerges from this volatile period stronger or simply survives it. Canada has the resources, the innovation capacity, and the political will. Now, let’s seize this moment before it passes.
Kip Eideberg is the senior vice-president of government and industry relations for the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, which represents over 100 off-road equipment manufacturers and suppliers in Canada.
The Hill Times