British Columbia is leading what the province is calling the largest reduction of red tape in Canadian history, after all provinces, territories and the federal government signed a new national trade agreement.

The Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement will remove many interprovincial trade barriers starting in December, making it easier for businesses to sell products across the country without navigating different provincial rules.

The agreement applies to most goods except food, covering thousands of products ranging from clothing and toys to industrial supplies, vehicles and medical technology.

“When threats to Canada’s economic security land at our doorstep, we’re at our best when we work together as one country,” said Premier David Eby.

“That’s why our government has led the effort to make it easier for businesses to grow and create good jobs across provincial and territorial lines. This is part of our work to build an economy that’s less reliant on the United States and works better for all Canadians.”

B.C. proposed and led the initiative, which was formally signed yesterday in Yellowknife through the Committee on Internal Trade.

Once in effect, a product legally sold in B.C. will be allowed for sale across Canada without additional approvals, testing or certification, unless otherwise listed as an exception.

Jobs and Economic Growth Minister Ravi Kahlon says this is just the first step, with work underway to make it easier to move labour, financial services, and alcohol across provincial borders.

The province says the change is expected to help Canadian companies grow, increase consumer choice, and give international investors more certainty.

Economic analysis suggests the agreement could boost Canada’s GDP by nearly eight per cent - or roughly 200-billion dollars - by improving efficiency and cutting delays.

The initiative aligns with B.C.’s Trade Diversification Strategy and Look West plan, which aim to reduce reliance on U.S. markets and expand provincial access to new trading partners.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.