The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is raising concerns about what it calls a “hidden” industrial carbon tax that continues to affect Canadian businesses, despite recent federal announcements suggesting a pause on consumer carbon pricing.
Franco Terrazzano, Federal Director of the CTF, explained that although the consumer carbon tax rate was set to zero on April 1, the legislation enabling it remains in place, meaning it could be reinstated at any time. More pressing, he noted, is the federal government’s continued imposition of an industrial carbon tax on sectors like oil and gas, utilities, and fertilizer production — costs that ultimately increase prices for Canadian families.
Terrazzano warned that this industrial tax places Canadian businesses at a competitive disadvantage, especially compared to countries like the United States, which does not have a national carbon tax. He emphasized that this could encourage businesses to move operations out of Canada, leading to job losses and reduced economic growth.
Provinces are beginning to push back. Alberta has frozen increases to the industrial carbon tax, and Saskatchewan has eliminated it altogether, becoming the first carbon tax-free province in Canada. Terrazzano praised these moves as steps in the right direction but reiterated the CTF’s call to eliminate all forms of carbon taxation nationwide.
In addition to tax concerns, Terrazzano expressed alarm over Prime Minister Mark Carney’s proposed $225 billion in new federal debt over the next four years — nearly $100 billion more than the previous government’s plan. He warned that rising debt leads to higher interest costs and future tax hikes, burdening Canadians even further.
The CTF is also continuing its campaign against a potential home equity tax, urging Canadians to remain vigilant and engaged. For more information or to sign the petitions, visit taxpayer.com.
Mario Toneguzzi
Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Entrepreneur. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 and 2024 as one of the top business journalists in the world by PR News. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024 and 2025.
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