Charlottetown, PEI – May 21, 2025 – The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) congratulates the Prince Edward Island government for successfully passing the Interprovincial Trade and Mobility Act (Bill No. 15, 2025). This significant legislative achievement marks a major step toward eliminating interprovincial trade barriers with other Canadian jurisdictions that adopt similar measures.
"The passage of this important legislation is a win for small and medium-sized businesses across Prince Edward Island," stated Frederic Gionet, CFIB's Director of Legislative Affairs for PEI-Atlantic. "By recognizing standards for goods and services of reciprocating jurisdictions, the PEI government is paving the way for reduced costs, increased efficiency, and greater economic opportunities for local businesses. This is precisely the kind of proactive, business-friendly policy that CFIB has been advocating for."
According to a CFIB survey, nearly 90% of small businesses say removing internal trade barriers should be a priority for governments. Half (50%) said internal trade barriers harm production, the same share said they harm expansion, while about nine in ten (87%) agree that food produced in provincially/ territorially licensed or inspected facilities should be able to be sold in all provinces / territories.
The Interprovincial Trade and Mobility Act ensures goods and services approved in other provinces and territories do not require additional testing or certification when entering PEI. Additionally, individuals licensed or certified in reciprocating provinces can now more easily practice their profession on the Island, significantly reducing bureaucratic hurdles and enhancing labour mobility.
"We commend the provincial government for listening to the concerns of entrepreneurs and taking tangible steps to dismantle unnecessary trade barriers," added Gionet. "This legislation not only simplifies doing business but also strengthens PEI’s economic integration with the rest of Canada, fostering a more competitive and vibrant business environment. It is an important first step."
CFIB will continue working collaboratively with provincial governments across Canada to further eliminate interprovincial trade barriers, enhancing economic opportunities nationwide.
For media enquiries or interviews, please contact:
Frederic Gionet
506-866-5548
frederic.gionet@cfib.ca
About CFIB
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized enterprises, representing 100,000 members across all sectors and regions—including 900 in Prince Edward Island and 10,200 across Atlantic Canada, employing over 124,000 people. CFIB works to increase the chance of small business success by advocating for policy change, offering expert advice and tools, and securing exclusive savings for members. Learn more at cfib.ca.
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