The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) warned that more than 1.3 million temporary work permits are set to expire by the end of 2026, raising concerns about labour shortages and disruptions for small businesses. The group said sectors already facing worker shortages could struggle if employers lose access to temporary foreign workers. “The economic … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) says new survey data show 52 per cent of small businesses no longer consider the United States a reliable trading partner one year after tariffs were imposed on Canadian goods. CFIB President Dan Kelly says the ongoing trade dispute has created significant uncertainty for small firms, with 68 … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business issued a statement warning that Canada’s agriculture sector is at risk as excessive regulatory burden discourages farmers and agri-business owners from continuing or passing on their operations. CFIB says new research shows nearly seven in 10 agri-businesses are advising the next generation not to run a business because of … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) issued its 2026 Red Tape Report Card during Red Tape Awareness Week, giving Alberta the top overall grade for the fourth consecutive year. Ontario and Nova Scotia also earned strong A grades, while Manitoba fell to last place with a failing grade after repealing key regulatory accountability measures. … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business announced its 2026 Paperweight Awards, highlighting what it called the most absurd examples of red tape mismanagement across Canada. The top “winner” was the Canada Border Services Agency for its rollout of the Assessment and Revenue Management system (CARM), which CFIB said has buried small importers in paperwork, costs, … Read more
As part of Red Tape Awareness Week, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), in partnership with the Canadian Medical Association (CMA), released a report finding doctors lose 20 million hours each year to unnecessary paperwork, the equivalent of 9,000 full-time physicians. The report, Losing doctors to desk work, shows individual physicians spend up to … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business hosts Red Tape Awareness Week 2026 from Jan. 26 to Jan. 30, focusing on how cutting red tape can lower costs and help Canadians navigate economic uncertainty. Events include the release of a physician red tape report on Monday, Jan. 26; the Paperweight Award for the most burdensome regulation … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) called on the federal government to make small businesses a top priority as Parliament returns, urging Ottawa to make 2026 “a year of the entrepreneur.” The organization says small firms face rising costs, weak demand, and policy gaps, arguing that recent federal programs fail to meet their needs. … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business issued its latest Main Street Quarterly report forecasting economic growth of 3.4 per cent in the first quarter of 2026 after an estimated 0.6 per cent expansion in the final quarter of 2025. “Despite a turbulent 2025, Canada’s economy remains relatively resilient,” said CFIB Chief Economist and Vice-President of Research Simon … Read more
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is calling on governments to deliver real reforms on internal trade as the House Committee on Internal Trade meets this week. While recent Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and legislative efforts have been introduced, CFIB warns that a patchwork of rules continues to create confusion and costs for small … Read more
