MONTREAL, QC – Liberal Party leader Mark Carney announced a sweeping infrastructure initiative aimed at reducing Canada’s dependence on the United States for trade, promising to steer the nation toward a more resilient and diversified economy.
Carney’s announcement comes amid escalating trade tensions with the U.S., highlighted by what he called “unjust tariffs” from President Donald Trump. In response, the Liberals are launching a $5 billion Trade Diversification Corridor Fund, targeting infrastructure upgrades across Canada.
“We’re fighting, protecting, and building,” said Carney. “This crisis is also an opportunity — to strengthen our economy by building it smarter, together.”
The fund will invest in critical trade infrastructure such as ports, inland terminals, railways, highways, and airports — a move intended to accelerate nation-building projects and pivot Canada toward broader global trade partnerships.
A Northern Ontario Lens
For Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario, this announcement could have local impact. With the Port of Thunder Bay already serving as a strategic hub on the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway, potential federal investment could expand its capacity for global trade beyond North American markets.
Carney emphasized national unity and economic strength, asserting that Canadian ports will be empowered to collaborate rather than compete — a move that could help smaller ports like Thunder Bay better integrate into national and international trade networks.
Additionally, the plan includes enhanced port security to curb the influx of illicit drugs such as fentanyl, as well as illegal firearms and stolen vehicles — issues with growing relevance in border communities and transport corridors across the country.
“We are ready to build the fastest-growing economy in the G7,” Carney concluded. “Together, we will make Canada strong.”
