Trade policy uncertainty has surged to its highest level since NAFTA renegotiations during the first Trump administration. Supply chain disruptions, tariff anxieties, higher costs and softening consumer demand have exporters feeling less optimistic than other firms, according to the latest Business Insights Quarterly from our Business Data Lab (BDL). 

Once again, more businesses ranked weak consumer demand as a greater obstacle than attracting and retaining workers, signaling ongoing concerns over softening consumer confidence and spending. 

PODCAST

On a recent episode of Canada’s Economy, Explained, Capgemini Canada’s Tom Mosseau and Franco Amalfi joined host Marwa Abdou for a deep conversation on the intersection of AI, sustainability and digital readiness. 

On the sidelines of the G7 Leaders' Summit in Kananaskis this week, Prime Minister Carney confirmed on Monday that he and President Trump have agreed to pursuing a bilateral deal aimed at building a “new economic and security relationship” within 30 days. The commitment followed a 70-minute meeting between the two leaders.

According to the official Canadian readout of the meeting, in addition to the new economic and security deal between Canada and the U.S., the two leaders also discussed immediate trade pressures, critical minerals, gun and drug smuggling, illegal drugs, border security and cooperation on defence. 

LETTER

Last week, alongside five other business associations, we sent a letter to Prime Minister Carney asking that he demonstrate Canada’s seriousness about strengthening alliances, improving competitiveness and restoring affordability by pausing the June 30 DST payment deadline.  

We believe that redefining Canada’s commercial relationships and forging a stronger, more secure partnership with the United States cannot be achieved if the Canadian government proceeds with its current timeline to collect a retroactive tax on digital service companies. 

EVENT-RECAP

With Canada holding the G7 and B7 presidency in 2025, business leaders from G7 nations have put forward united, actionable recommendations to help governments tackle today’s biggest economic challenges. 

These recommendations highlight business-driven solutions to strengthen resilience, boost competitiveness and support sustainable growth across areas like AI, critical minerals, digital trade, energy and more. 

APPEARANCE

On June 16, our Vice President of Government Relations, David Pierce, and Senior Director of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainability, Bryan Detchou, appeared before the Senate Committee of the Whole to provide remarks on Bill C-5, The One Canadian Economy Act. 

They highlighted the urgent need to reduce internal trade barriers and accelerate the development of critical infrastructure across Canada.  

COUNCIL

We are renewing our Western Executive Council for another term, bringing together CEOs and senior leaders from Western Canada to shape federal policy from a regional perspective. 

Running from July 2025 to June 2026, the Council will meet 4–6 times annually to discuss key issues, develop common positions and engage directly with federal decision-makers. Members also benefit from enhanced visibility and exclusive policy engagement opportunities. 

To express interest, please contact David Pierce or Kim Gale.  

STATEMENT

Last week, the Government of Canada made public the final report and recommendations of the Industrial Inquiry Commission on longshoring labour disputes at Canada’s West Coast ports. 

“We urge the government to act on the recommendations in today’s Industrial Inquiry Commission report,” said Pascal Chan, Vice President, Strategic Policy and Supply Chains, in a statement.

EVENT

Our Inclusive Growth Awards celebrate those helping build an economy that works for everyone. We’re recognizing chambers of commerce, boards of trade, member businesses and non-profits removing barriers to participation, and spotlighting Indigenous and other underrepresented entrepreneurs driving innovation and social change. 

Nominations for 2025 are open until Friday, August 22. 

As AI evolves, outdated storage systems are holding innovation back — making high-performance, efficient data storage more critical than ever. Pure Storage, a Canadian Chamber member, explores how next-gen storage solutions are unlocking the full potential of AI.  

Read more in this week’s featured blog post. 

In today’s fast-changing investment landscape, capital is flowing to companies that can clearly demonstrate ESG leadership. Canadian Chamber member Millani unpacks why ESG isn't just good practice, it’s a critical factor in securing investment and building economic resilience.  

Read more in this week’s featured blog post.