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Legislative Update: What Bill C-5 Means for Business
On June 26, 2025, Bill C-5: The One Canadian Economy Act received Royal Assent—marking a significant win for Canadian businesses.
This legislation removes long-standing interprovincial trade and labour mobility barriers, hopefully making it easier to do business across Canada. Here’s how it could benefit business:
Skilled labour moves more freely
Red Seal-certified tradespeople and professionals can now work across provincial borders without unnecessary re-certification.
Example: An electrician from Nova Scotia can begin working in Alberta right away—helping address national labour shortages.Products and services face fewer barriers
Regulatory differences between provinces are being reduced or eliminated.
Example: A food producer in New Brunswick can sell directly in Ontario without having to meet duplicate packaging or ingredient rules.Expanding your business just got easier
You’ll face less paperwork and duplication when entering new provincial markets.
Example: A PEI-based contractor can now bid on projects in Manitoba without layers of re-registration or local compliance.Reduced red tape = lower costs
Streamlining regulations means businesses can focus more on growth and less on navigating bureaucracy.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Atlantic Chamber as we track how this new legislation is rolled out. Learn more here.---
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June 27, 2025
Reaction to Stalled Canada-U.S. Trade Talks
Negotiations go through peaks and valleys. With deadlines approaching, some last-minute surprises should be expected.
Our position on the Digital Services Tax has been consistent, but primarily for the reason that it’s self-defeating in nature. That said, it’s a pivotal time for Canada-U.S. relations. The tone and tenor of talks has improved in recent months, and we hope to see progress continue. We respect that Team Canada is conducting these negotiations at the table, and we need to give them the space to navigate.
Candace Laing, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
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June 6, 2025
ACC's Position on Immigration
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce expresses serious concerns about recent reductions in immigration allocations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), which disproportionately impact Atlantic Canada. These cuts undermine the region’s ability to address its unique demographic and economic challenges, including labor shortages and population decline.
Atlantic Canada has long relied on tailored immigration policies, such as the AIP, to attract skilled workers and support regional employers. However, despite success in attracting immigrants, retention rates remain low, especially in rural areas, jeopardizing the sustainability of key industries such as healthcare, construction, and agriculture.
We urge the federal government to reconsider these cuts and engage in structured dialogue with provincial governments, chambers of commerce, and key stakeholders to develop sustainable, region-specific immigration policies. A collaborative, tailored approach is essential to ensuring the long-term economic prosperity and workforce sustainability of Atlantic Canada.
We request:
- A reconsideration of the recent allocation reductions.
- A strategic approach to improving retention and supporting population growth.
- A policy carve-out for Atlantic Canada to reflect its unique needs.
A one-size-fits-all approach does not work for our region. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure Atlantic Canada remains a vital contributor to Canada’s growth.
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May 28, 2025
Annual Conference and AGM - Recap
A vibrant two-day agenda blending inspiration, insight, and strategic focus.
Day 1 featured dynamic keynotes and workshops, including a powerful talk by Freshco CEO Mandy Rennehan on authenticity in leadership, and sessions on value creation, cultural competency, and community recognition.
Day 2 shifted to governance and policy, with the swearing-in of new Chair Margo Soucy by Candace Laing, the CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
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Publications
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The Chambers of Federation Policy Framework reflects a collaborative effort among provincial and territorial chambers of commerce to address shared challenges and unlock opportunities that benefit all Canadians.
With geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and global economic shifts intensifying, Canada must act decisively to strengthen national sovereignty, secure supply chains, and enhance competitiveness. This submission outlines immediate and longer-term priorities to drive trade, investment, and economic self reliance, ensuring Canada remains a leader in an evolving global landscape.
This is a pivotal moment - one where bold provincial and territorial leadership can remove internal barriers, fortify critical industries, and position Canada for sustained prosperity. This joint submission offers a united vision and actionable recommendations for consideration by the Council of the Federation, aimed at driving economic growth and trade competitiveness across the country
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Thank You To Our Corporate Partners
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Business Truth & Reconciliation
The Atlantic Chamber of Commerce takes proactive steps to promote reconciliation and respect for Indigenous rights within the corporate sector. In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action 92, the Chamber urges its members to embrace the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a guiding framework.
Recognizing the importance of education, the Chamber encourages businesses to provide comprehensive training for management and staff on the history of Indigenous peoples, including the legacy of residential schools, Indigenous rights, and Aboriginal-Crown relations. Emphasizing intercultural competency, conflict resolution, and anti-racism, these efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and harmonious corporate environment rooted in mutual understanding and respect.
Learn more click here