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Canada’s federal government says it is focused on building a stronger, more resilient economy as it navigates growing global uncertainty, according to the newly released Spring Economic Update 2026.
The update outlines Ottawa’s plan to strengthen Canada’s economic future through infrastructure investment, trade diversification, housing construction, workforce development and affordability measures aimed at helping Canadians manage rising living costs.
Government officials say the plan is designed to focus on areas within Canada’s control during a period marked by geopolitical instability, supply chain disruptions and trade pressures abroad.
“Our focus is clear and disciplined,” the update states. “We are concentrating on what we can control: maintaining fiscal sustainability while making targeted, high-impact investments for Canadians.”
Among the government’s highlighted achievements over the past year are 15 nation-building projects expected to support more than 60,000 jobs and generate over $125 billion in new investment. The government also pointed to new investments tied to critical minerals, defence manufacturing, housing development and transportation infrastructure.
The federal government says Canada continues to maintain one of the strongest fiscal positions in the G7, while also attracting significant international investment. According to the update, Canada secured $97 billion in foreign investment and more than 20 new economic and defence partnerships across four continents over the past year.
The report also emphasizes Canada’s expanding trade network and efforts to reduce reliance on the United States by opening new international markets. Canada currently has free trade agreements covering 51 countries and nearly two-thirds of the world’s GDP.
Housing affordability remains a major focus in the economic plan. The government says it is accelerating financing for housing projects, supporting modular and factory-built housing, and working with provinces and territories to reduce barriers to construction.
Several affordability measures were also highlighted, including middle-class tax relief, temporary fuel tax reductions and the expanded Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, which is expected to provide additional financial support to more than 12 million Canadians.
The government also announced plans to establish the Canada Strong Fund, a proposed sovereign wealth fund aimed at investing in strategic Canadian projects and industries while allowing Canadians to participate directly in the returns generated by those investments.
Workforce development is another central pillar of the plan, with the launch of Team Canada Strong, an initiative intended to recruit and train between 80,000 and 100,000 new Red Seal skilled trades workers by 2030. Additional apprenticeship supports, student grant increases and labour mobility incentives were also included in the update.
The Spring Economic Update further outlines investments in journalism, Indigenous services, sports infrastructure, coastal communities and anti-fraud initiatives designed to strengthen community safety and public trust.
While acknowledging continued global economic uncertainty, the government says Canada’s strengths — including its skilled workforce, natural resources, stable institutions and competitive investment climate — position the country for long-term growth.
“In a more uncertain world, Canada offers stability,” the update states. “In a more divided world, Canada forges partnerships. And in a more competitive world, Canada invests decisively in its future.”
The federal government says the Spring Economic Update 2026 represents the next step in its broader plan to build a stronger, more independent and resilient Canadian economy for future generations.
For the full Spring Economic Update, visit the Government of Canada website at budget.canada.ca/update-miseajour/2026/report-rapport/intro-en.html#wb-cont.