Prime Minister Mark Carney unveiled six major infrastructure projects intended to reduce Canada’s dependence on the United States and speed up economic diversification. The projects span energy, critical minerals, transmission infrastructure and regional development. They include the Ksi Lisims LNG project in British Columbia, Ontario’s Crawford nickel project, the Sisson mine in New Brunswick, Nouveau Monde Graphite’s Matawinie operation in Quebec, the Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit Hydro Project and the North Coast Transmission Line. Because several of these proposals face funding challenges and local opposition, their path forward remains complex.
Review of Earlier Fast-Track Approvals
The first round of Carney’s nation-building strategy was announced in September, featuring expansions in ports, mining, clean energy and public infrastructure. The goal is to accelerate projects that strengthen national supply chains. Although the new list signals federal ambition, observers say the success of these initiatives will depend on regulatory clarity and co-operation with provincial and Indigenous governments.
Canada Competes to Host Defence-Focused Bank
Canada is currently in the running to host the new Defence, Security and Resilience Bank, a multinational lender designed to finance defence projects for NATO allies and partner states. The bank could include up to 40 member countries and 12 anchor states. If headquartered in Canada, it would create thousands of jobs in defence finance and elevate Canada’s strategic position. Several major banks, including RBC and JPMorgan, have already committed to helping establish the institution.
Labour Market Strength Driven by Large Employers
Canada’s labour market continues to surprise analysts, with new jobs largely created by companies employing more than 500 workers. These firms have added 592,000 positions in 2025, while smaller employers have shed over 300,000 jobs. Although the overall unemployment rate has fallen to 6.9 percent, economists warn that the widening gap between large and small businesses reflects vulnerabilities linked to the US trade conflict and mounting operational pressures on small enterprises.
Saab Pursues Fighter Jet Production in Canada
Saab CEO Micael Johansson confirmed that talks are underway with the federal government and Bombardier to build Gripen fighter jets in Canada. The discussions coincide with the upcoming royal visit by Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia. Saab estimates that local production could create as many as 10,000 jobs and support new research in aviation technology. The company already collaborates with Bombardier, since its GlobalEye surveillance aircraft is built on Bombardier business jets.
The Collapse of Ruby Liu’s Department Store Plan
Real estate executive Ruby Liu attracted national attention earlier this year with a proposal to take over more than two dozen former Hudson’s Bay stores and launch a new department store chain under her name. However, mall owners raised concerns about the lack of retail experience, unclear financing and significant gaps between public statements and internal planning. As scrutiny increased, Liu’s effort to reshape Canadian retail fell apart. Analysts say the episode highlights the risks associated with ambitious but under-prepared bids in a struggling retail landscape.
