Canadian Chamber of Commerce Business Data Lab

Blog

Explore rapid commentaries and charts that help organizations understand economic data releases and what they mean.

 

6 Predictions for the Canadian Economy in 2026

BDL makes economic predictions for the Canadian economy in 2026.
Read Blog
Listen to Podcast
Economic Commentary

Apr 10, 2026

Sticky hiring, but wage growth at its highest since 2024: Labour Force Survey March 2025

Canada’s labour market remained stable but subdued in March, as hiring slowed and unemployment held steady, while strong wage growth emerged as the key bright spot amid ongoing economic uncertainty.
Economic Commentary

Apr 02, 2026

Volatile Imports Drive Wider Deficit Despite Export Rebound: Merchandise Trade February 2026

February’s trade data underscores a rebound in exports, but one that is overshadowed by stronger import growth and commodity-driven volatility. While export gains were broad-based, imports surged ahead in both value and volume terms, widening the deficit and pointing to net trade acting as a drag on first-quarter growth. At the same time, record exports to non-U.S. markets highlight ongoing diversification, though Canada’s external position remains heavily influenced by commodity flows and U.S. demand.
Economic Commentary

Mar 31, 2026

January 2026 GDP: Canada’s economy kicks off 2026 on decent footing

Real GDP accelerated by 0.1% in January providing some signs that the Canadian economy is building some momentum following a 0.2% growth in December.
Economic Commentary

Mar 20, 2026

Strong Start to the Year, but Underlying Momentum Remains Fragile: Retail Sales January 2026

Retail sales posted a solid rebound in January, with broad-based gains across provinces signaling a firm start to the year. However, the strength was driven largely by autos, while softer grocery spending points to a consumer that remains cautious beneath the surface.
Economic Commentary

Mar 18, 2026

Bank of Canada holds interest rates on cloudy conditions downplaying oil price risk to inflation

The Bank of Canada holds its interest rate at 2.25%.

Want to go deeper? / Looking for more?

View the BDL’s library of in-depth reports exploring topical business subjects and trends.

view reports