CHARLOTTETOWN — Prince Edward Island has introduced legislation aimed at reducing barriers to interprovincial trade and labour mobility.
The bill is similar to legislation passed by Nova Scotia last month, and it will allow the Island to accept standards on goods coming from a Canadian jurisdiction that passes the same type of bill.
The Interprovincial Trade and Mobility Act would also allow P.E.I. regulatory bodies to recognize licensed professionals who are properly certified in a reciprocating Canadian province or territory within 10 business days of receiving an application.
The Island government says it anticipates the first reciprocating jurisdiction will be Nova Scotia.
Regulations for the bill are to be developed in consultation with industry and professions.
Premier Rob Lantz said in a news release that the idea is to get Canadian governments to work together to create “one national economy instead of 13 separate economies.”
“I’ve said from Day 1 that we were part of Team Canada during these uncertain times,” said Lantz. “This bill will open the door to working collaboratively with all provinces and territories to reach agreements that are good for everyone and will help to grow our economy and make our workforce more accessible.”
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston commended Lantz in the news release for working quickly to match his province’s commitment to more open national trade.
“I look forward to removing barriers for products, businesses and workers so both provinces may benefit,” Houston said.
The Island government said its legislation will not apply to regulated health professionals or to lawyers who are governed through separate legislation.
Other occupations could be exempt if it’s demonstrated that there are significant differences in the scope, education or training requirements for the profession.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 11, 2025.
The Canadian Press
