Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new “Buy Canadian” policy on January 24, 2026, emphasizing the importance of domestic procurement across homes, infrastructure projects, and military hardware. The initiative seeks to strengthen Canada’s manufacturing base, reduce reliance on foreign imports, and protect the economy from external pressures such as U.S. tariffs.

In a government video released alongside the announcement, Carney stated, “We’re buying Canadian, and we’re building Canadian,” framing the policy as both an economic and national security measure. By prioritizing Canadian-made products in public projects, the government aims to support local industries, safeguard jobs, and encourage investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities.

The timing of the announcement follows Carney’s January 16 visit to Beijing, where Canada signed a trade agreement granting market access for Chinese electric vehicles, allowing up to 49,000 imports starting in March. The deal also opens avenues for Canadian exports such as canola. While the trade agreement expanded international market opportunities, critics argued that it risks undermining domestic manufacturing, making the “Buy Canadian” initiative a direct countermeasure to ensure local industries benefit from government spending.

The policy covers a broad range of sectors, including residential construction, major infrastructure projects, and defense procurement. By focusing on domestic sourcing, the Canadian government intends to shield critical industries from global supply chain disruptions and competitive pressures, while reinforcing economic sovereignty in an era of rising international trade tensions.

Prime Minister Carney framed the initiative as a forward-looking strategy designed to balance engagement in global markets with the protection and growth of Canadian industry, signaling a renewed commitment to domestic production and long-term economic resilience.