Canada’s New Government Cuts Transportation Costs in Atlantic Canada

Prime Minister Mark Carney announces major toll and fare reductions to improve affordability and interprovincial trade

Prince County, P.E.I. – Canadians travelling to and from Atlantic Canada will soon see significant savings on key transportation routes, following new measures announced today by Prime Minister Mark Carney. The federal government is cutting tolls on the Confederation Bridge and slashing fares for several interprovincial ferry services in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Québec, effective August 1, 2025.

Major Reductions on Bridge Tolls and Ferry Fares

Under the new plan, tolls on the Confederation Bridge will drop from over $50 to $20 for all vehicles. The bridge, which handles approximately 90-95% of passenger and commercial traffic to Prince Edward Island, saw nearly one million vehicles cross in 2024.

Ferry services under the federal Ferry Services Contribution Program will also see a 50% fare reduction for passengers, vehicles, and commercial traffic. All fuel surcharges will be eliminated.

Additionally, Marine Atlantic Inc., which operates the constitutionally required ferry link between Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, will receive funding to cut fares for passengers and vehicles by 50% and freeze commercial freight rates. This service carries 65% of all goods to and from Newfoundland, including 90% of perishables such as fresh produce, propane, and medical oxygen.

Strengthening Canada’s Economy Through Affordable Transportation

Prime Minister Carney said the cuts deliver on a core government commitment to unite the Canadian economy and reduce costs for Canadians.

“By cutting tolls on the Confederation Bridge and fares on ferries in Atlantic Canada, Canadians and businesses will save millions of dollars. That means more travel and trade between provinces, a stronger, more united economy, and more prosperity and opportunity for Canadians,” said Carney.

Transport Minister Chrystia Freeland emphasized that internal trade barriers have long hindered economic growth.

“Internal trade barriers have held our country back for far too long. They’ve driven up the cost of doing business and created roadblocks for industry expansion nationwide. To build a strong, dynamic economy, affordable and accessible transportation is key. Cutting fares and tolls will allow people to move around more easily, boosting interprovincial travel and tourism, supporting business growth, and strengthening cultural ties between our provinces and territories.”

Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald highlighted the benefits for Prince Edward Island residents and producers, while Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson noted the positive impact on the fishing industry, a cornerstone of coastal economies.

Quick Facts

• Confederation Bridge: Operated by Strait Crossing Bridge Limited under federal ownership. Current toll for a 2-axle vehicle: $50.25, dropping to $20 on August 1.

• Eastern Canada Ferry Services: Routes include P.E.I.-Nova Scotia (NFL), New Brunswick-Nova Scotia (BFL), and Québec-Îles-de-la-Madeleine-P.E.I. (CTMA), carrying over 531,000 passengers annually.

• Marine Atlantic Inc.: Connects Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, transporting 65% of all goods, including essential supplies.

This initiative is part of the government’s broader plan to lower transportation costs nationwide, break down internal trade barriers, and strengthen Canada’s position as one of the most connected and competitive economies in the G7.

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