Finalists for the 2025 Hunter Prize argue Canada needs more than tax cuts. They call for a whole‑of‑government competition policy to drive long-term growth.
Why Reform Is Urgent
Living standards in Canada have stagnated, while productivity growth remains sluggish. According to The Hub, competition must become economic policy—not just the domain of one department.
What “Whole‑of‑Government” Means
The proposal urges Ottawa to treat competition policy as shared across ministries. Industrial, financial, and trade agencies must all support market dynamism.
Instead of reacting to problems, the authors want to co‑create markets for affordability, innovation, and resilience.
Policy Examples Proposed
The finalists propose practical reforms: banning non‑compete clauses, requiring transparent per-unit pricing in grocery stores, and limiting restrictive covenants by landlords.
They also suggest reforms to procurement, licensing, taxes, and data protection to align with competition goals.
Hidden Costs of Weak Competition
Canadians aren’t just paying more — they’re paying in time and stress, too. The essay highlights how difficult it is to cancel subscriptions, how “junk fees” add up, and how entrepreneurs waste time navigating opaque digital rules. These costs act like hidden taxes on consumers and businesses.
The Case for Predistribution
Rather than rely solely on redistribution (tax credits and rebates), the authors call for predistribution: building fairer markets from the start.
That means leveling the playing field so buyers, workers and small firms have more power and real choices.
Government Buy‑In Is Key
Skeptics argue that this strategy could add bureaucracy. But the authors counter that it diffuses power rather than concentrates it.
Competition should no longer be siloed within the Competition Bureau; every ministry should factor it into decisions.
Aligning National Missions
The proposal ties competition to broader national goals: affordability, innovation, and economic sovereignty. Major policy tools should reflect these shared missions, not sector-by-sector fixes.
Next Steps for Canada
To make this vision real, Canada must weave competition into industrial strategy, trade, and local policy.The Hub finalists believe this roadmap could revive growth, lower prices, and strengthen Canada’s economy for future generations.
