GVBOT applauds the signing of the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement
November 19, 2025
On Nov. 19, 2025, the Province of B.C. announced the signing of the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement that will break down interprovincial trade barriers, making it more accessible for B.C. businesses to sell products across the country, and for people to purchase Canadian goods.
This announcement is good news for the Canadian business community, and the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade applauds the Province for their role in negotiating this agreement. Until now cross-Canada trade regulations imposed the equivalent of a 6.9% tariff on goods crossing provincial/territorial borders.
We have been vocal in advocating for the removal of interprovincial trade barriers, because doing so could increase our national real GDP by 3.8%. This would translate to a provincial GDP growth of $7.6 billion, providing an additional $1.7 billion in new revenues for government.
Earlier this year, we launched the report, Unleashing Local Trade & Production within Canada, which called for the elimination of interprovincial trade barriers and enhancement of east-west trade corridors.The business community has long called for the simple principle that if a product is approved for sale in one province, it should be approved in all provinces.
While this announcement is worth celebrating, it is important that we carry this momentum towards further integration and opportunity domestically. As Canadians, we must meet the moment and build a stronger and more resilient economy every province and territory.