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Canada's Liberal government has announced that it will maintain its immigration targets unchanged for the next two years and will halt the upward trajectory of immigration from 2026 onward. Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed that the country is targeting 465,000 new residents this year, increasing to 485,000 in 2024 and reaching 500,000 in 2025. The government aims to sustain this level in 2026.
Miller emphasised that these immigration levels are designed to balance Canada's economic and population growth while mitigating their impact on critical systems such as infrastructure and housing. The decision comes as Canada grapples with high inflation and a housing crisis.
However, experts, including the Royal Bank of Canada, have pointed out that the pause in targeted immigration levels might not be sufficient in the long term. RBC noted that an annual immigrant intake of 1.3% of the population falls short of stabilizing the age structure, suggesting that immigration at a rate of about 2.1% would be necessary.
Canada's population growth has been predominantly driven by immigration, contributing significantly to the country's economic expansion. Immigration has been both a driver and a brake for inflation, as it generates more demand, leading to price increases, but it also helps control labour costs by adding workers to the workforce.
In recent years, a robust influx of immigrants has accelerated Canada's population growth, making it one of the top 20 fastest-growing countries globally. This growth has partly offset the challenges posed by an ageing population, which results in retirements and increased healthcare costs.
Despite the positive aspects of immigration, there has been a rising trend of newcomers opting to leave Canada. This challenges a nation heavily reliant on immigration for population and economic expansion. This trend underscores the delicate balance Canada must maintain between attracting immigrants for sustainable growth and managing the challenges associated with housing, infrastructure, and public support.
In conclusion, Canada's decision to maintain its current immigration targets reflects the government's strategic approach to managing population growth amid economic challenges. While this approach aims to address immediate concerns, it also raises questions about the country's ability to sustain its growth in the long run, especially concerning its ageing population and associated costs. Canada's immigration policies will continue to be a topic of scrutiny and discussion as the nation navigates these complex dynamics.
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