Champagne meets provincial finance ministers on health funding, U.S. trade response and internal trade barriers

Key takeaways

Health care funding: ministers discussed the longer-term challenges facing Canadian health systems and reaffirmed federal, provincial and territorial collaboration to support a strong, sustainable public health care system. Champagne acknowledged provincial concerns about funding pressures and committed to continuing discussions on immediate funding needs and the long-term sustainability, efficiency and modernization of health systems.

Response to U.S. trade measures: ministers discussed Canadian counter-tariffs to protect market share for Canadian producers, the implementation of the remission framework, and supports for affected workers and businesses. Champagne highlighted the recently announced $7.5 billion package of new and enhanced measures to protect workers and businesses facing trade-related pressures, while limiting unintended impacts on Canadian firms and supply chains. Ministers also discussed strengthening domestic supply chains, including increasing the use of Canadian steel in major projects.

Long-term economic performance: ministers exchanged views on strengthening long-term performance through increased investment, higher productivity and enhanced competitiveness. Champagne pointed to the Productivity Mega Deduction and the significant commitments secured through the Canada Investment Summit, which are helping to create the conditions for an investment supercycle, and discussed translating those commitments into major projects, stronger capital markets and sustained economic growth.

Source

Department of Finance Canada official news release (October 2, 2026); the virtual meeting took place on October 1.