Government introduces bill to remove barriers to interprovincial trade

Improving Trade Within Canada Act to improve resolution process for disputes

Looking to enhance interprovincial trade, the federal government has introduced an Improving Trade Within Canada Act (ITCA) to improve the resolution process for government-to-government disputes under the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT).

"Now, more than ever, a stronger, more efficient economic union is critical to securing Canada's full potential," said Rob Moore, minister of state (small business and tourism).

The ITCA is consistent with the government of Canada's internal trade priorities and AIT amendments made by the federal-provincial-territorial Committee on Internal Trade in October 2009. Non-compliance with AIT obligations could result in financial penalties of up to $5 million for the federal government and the larger provinces.

Provincial and territorial ministers are in the process of taking similar steps to ensure that, by April 2011, accountability for compliance with the AIT is fully in effect across the country.

The AIT, a national agreement that commits governments to reducing barriers to the free movement of goods, services, investments and persons within Canada, was signed by Canadian first ministers in 1994.

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