Ottawa wraps cross-country consultations ahead of Budget 2026

By Your Southwest Media Group

Federal officials visited 23 cities this summer to listen to people hoping to influence Canada's next budget.

Headed by Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, the group "hosted 44 roundtables and participated in 56 bilateral meetings with workers, businesses, Indigenous partners, labour representatives, innovators, academics, community leaders and non-profit organizations," a recent Finance Department statement said.

They also received more than 18,000 survey responses and "nearly 2,000" other submissions from residents, the statement said.

"By meeting with us over the summer and sharing their insights and priorities, Canadians have played a critical role in shaping Budget 2026," Champagne said.

"The ideas and priorities (that participants) shared will help ensure that Budget 2026 delivers on the needs, ambitions and aspirations of people and communities across the country," added Wayne Long, the secretary of state for the Canada Revenue Agency and financial institutions.

"These discussions provided valuable insights on how Budget 2026 can build on the government's work to lower taxes and everyday costs, cut red tape, protect and create good jobs, support businesses affected by tariffs, strengthen supply chains and unlock investment in major projects and growing industries," the statement said.

"Participants also emphasized the importance of building more homes, diversifying trade relationships, reinforcing Canada's economic sovereignty and building a more independent and competitive economy."