Business federation hails Ottawa’s move to cut bridge, ferry tolls
Posted Jul 29, 2025 04:47:01 AM.
Last Updated Jul 29, 2025 01:27:37 PM.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is applauding Ottawa’s move to cut bridge and ferry tolls on the east coast, calling it a relief for Atlantic Canadian businesses.
On Monday, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that, starting Friday, tolls on the Confederation Bridge will be reduced from $50 to $20. Several regional ferry routes connecting Nova Scotia to other Atlantic provinces will also see reductions.
Marine Atlantic, a constitutionally mandated ferry service connecting Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, will reduce traveller fares by 50 per cent and freeze commercial freight rates.
In a release, the CFIB called the announcement a long-awaited victory for small businesses in the region, adding that high tolls on critical transportation links have made it more expensive to do business, move goods and connect communities.
“This is an important moment for small businesses in Atlantic Canada,” said Frédéric Gionet, CFIB’s director for the region. “For too long, high tolls on critical transportation links have made it more expensive to do business, move goods and connect communities. Monday’s announcement represents meaningful relief.”
The federation said transportation costs remain a top concern for Atlantic business owners trying to stay competitive in a high-cost environment.
According to the CFIB, tolls cost the potato industry alone more than $7 million per year.
