If passed, Bill 21, the Interprovincial Trade Mutual Recognition Act would cut unnecessary red tape and lower costs for businesses while improving access to the everyday goods and services Albertans need by creating the legal framework to implement the Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on the Sale of Goods.
Bill 21 would also ensure Alberta can easily implement future mutual recognition agreements for goods and services. By reducing interprovincial trade barriers, Alberta can keep goods moving across the country, reduce reliance on unpredictable cross-border markets and strengthen supply chains closer to home.
“Removing unnecessary trade barriers will make life more affordable for Albertans and make it easier for Alberta businesses to grow and compete across Canada. This legislation would strengthen our economy by making it easier to open new markets, improving product choice for consumers and ensuring Alberta remains a leader in promoting free trade within our province and across the country.”
With uncertainty around global trade and tariffs, it is more important than ever for Canada to make it easier to trade within its own borders. The Canadian Mutual Recognition Agreement on the Sale of Goods, which was signed by provinces and territories in November 2025 and takes effect on June 30, 2026, aims to strengthen interprovincial trade and make Canada’s regulatory system simpler and more efficient.
“Removing Canada’s internal trade barriers has clear economic benefits, particularly reducing barriers for business and costs for consumers. Alberta’s leadership on this issue is an important step toward a more competitive and connected Canadian economy.”
“Removing barriers to interprovincial trade has been a top priority for businesses, and Bill 21 delivers just that. It's the kind of practical, pro-business action that strengthens our competitive edge, creates more wealth, and reinforces Alberta's leadership on trade. We're proud to support this step forward and excited about what it means for businesses across the province and ultimately across Canada.”
This approach reflects lessons learned from other Canadian jurisdictions and helps Alberta build a modern, transparent and flexible framework that protects health, safety, consumer and environmental standards while supporting economic competitiveness. This proposed legislation positions Alberta to meet its trade commitments, reduce red tape and support long-term economic growth.
More information will be shared with businesses and industry partners as implementation progresses.
Quick facts
- All provinces and Yukon have agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding committing to advance Direct-to-Consumer alcohol sales, with implementation scheduled for the end of May 2026.
- All provinces and territories have committed to revising the Canadian Free Trade Agreement to ensure a 30-day service standard for processing labour mobility applications, which is expected to be in place this summer.