06:24 AM EST, 03/06/2025 (MT Newswires) -- In a unified response to to escalating trade tensions with the U.S., Canada's first ministers have agreed to reduce interprovincial trade barriers in hopes of strengthening the country's domestic economy, CTV News reported overnight Wednesday.

It noted the decision comes on the heels of emerging developments in Canada-U.S. trade relations over the past days.

"All first ministers agreed that now is the time to take meaningful action to further liberalize and support the Canadian market so that goods, services, and workers can move freely," a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reads.

Canada's leaders say internal trade barriers increase costs for businesses and consumers, limiting economic growth. They acknowledged that, while progress has been made in recent years, more work is needed. The leaders added that a key step would be making it easier for Canadians to do business with each other from coast to coast to coast.

"First Ministers agreed that certified professionals with credentials in one jurisdiction should be able to work anywhere in Canada," the statement continues.

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