Maple News reports that Canada’s labour market remained resilient in September 2023, according to the latest Labour Force Survey by Statistics Canada. The country’s unemployment rate held steady at 5.5%, indicating a stable job market environment as the economy continues to adapt post-pandemic.
Labour force participation has also remained consistent, with the employment rate at 62% for the population aged 15 and older. Employment growth was especially evident among core working-age adults (25–54 years), with both men and women reporting gains. Meanwhile, employment levels for youth (15–24 years) and older adults (55+) showed minimal change.
This data reflects a persistently tight labour market, in which job openings continue to be filled quickly—despite Canada’s surging population. Since the beginning of 2023, the nation’s labour force has grown by 381,000—an increase largely attributed to record-breaking immigration levels. Newcomers are playing a vital role in easing workforce shortages across key regions and industries.
Among the sectors with the most notable employment gains in September were educational services, which added 66,000 jobs—rebounding strongly from a 44,000-position drop in August—and transportation and warehousing, which gained an additional 19,000 jobs. Together, these figures highlight strong momentum in sectors essential to everyday infrastructure and public services.
However, not all industries experienced growth. Employment declined in finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing (-20,000 positions), construction (-18,000), and information, culture, and recreation (-12,000). These fluctuations reveal the dynamic nature of Canada’s evolving economic landscape.
The transportation and warehousing sector has been a standout throughout 2023. Since January, it has added 82,000 jobs—contributing over one-third (34.4%) of total employment growth across all industries. This surge mirrors ongoing demand in logistics and infrastructure, with a growing need for qualified workers.
To address sector-specific labour shortages, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced category-based selection rounds under the Express Entry system. Through this policy, immigration candidates with relevant experience in in-demand occupations—such as healthcare, STEM, trades, and transport—are prioritized, regardless of their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
This marks the first year of measurable outcomes from the category-based draws, offering greater pathways for skilled professionals to immigrate to Canada. It’s an opportunity for international talent to align directly with Canada’s most urgent hiring needs and contribute meaningfully to the national workforce.
As Canada navigates an era of economic normalization and demographic growth, the intersection of immigration policy and labour market demand continues to shape a balanced and forward-looking employment landscape.