Maple News reports that Canada is preparing to unveil a pivotal update to its Immigration Levels Plan, a move expected to define the country’s long-term economic path amid global uncertainty. By Friday, Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino will announce the targets for how many newcomers Canada aims to welcome in 2021.
While such announcements are routine, this year’s plan carries unique weight. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted global mobility and economic stability, significantly reducing Canada’s actual immigration intake for 2020 — far below the target of 341,000 newcomers. Despite border closures and a weakened job market, experts argue that maintaining ambitious immigration levels is more critical than ever.
Historically, Canada has steadily increased its immigration goals under both Liberal and Conservative governments. These increases have been essential for countering the economic effects of an aging population and a declining birth rate. Approximately 9 million baby boomers are expected to reach retirement age by 2030, and without strong immigration, the country may not have enough workers to support its economic and social systems.
The pandemic has not eliminated the demographic challenges Canada faces — in fact, it may have made them more acute. There are even concerns of a ‘baby bust’ as economic uncertainty reduces family planning. With less domestic population growth, immigration remains a key driver of labor force expansion and innovation.
Maintaining high immigration targets supports not only population growth but also the future of Canada’s knowledge economy. While automation and technology will fill some gaps, skilled immigrants play a vital role in sustaining industries, launching startups, and fostering innovation at home.
Reducing immigration now could stunt long-term recovery and growth. Instead, policy experts recommend that Canada double down on attracting global talent as a strategy to bounce back stronger post-pandemic. Maple News continues to follow this story and will provide updates on the official Immigration Levels Plan once released.