Canada Announces Sharp Cuts to Immigration Targets

AFP

Canada: In a significant policy shift, Canada has announced sharp reductions in its immigration targets in response to declining public support for immigration.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that the country will lower its immigration intake over the next three years, moving from a planned 500,000 new permanent residents in 2025 and 2026 to 395,000 in 2025 and 380,000 in 2026, with a target of 365,000 for 2027.

This decision comes after a recent survey indicated that 58% of Canadians believe the country accepts too many immigrants, a rise of 14 percentage points since 2023.

Critics warn that this reduction could negatively impact Canada’s labor market, especially given the challenges posed by an aging population and low fertility rates.

As Canada prepares for elections next year, the policy change has garnered mixed reactions from various political factions and business groups.