Territorial Premiers Say Internal Trade Talks Should Consider Northern Context

Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok (L) and Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson (R) look on as Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai speaks before a First Ministers meeting in Ottawa, on March 21, 2025. The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld

The premiers of Canada’s three territories say the country’s push to remove internal trade barriers needs to consider the unique economic situation of the North.

Yukon Premier Ranj Pillai, Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson and Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok say they will be exploring the creation of a “territorial trade zone” that would make sure modern treaties with indigenous people and the needs of the territories are recognized as trade barriers come down.