Canada’s population has officially crossed the 40 million mark, a remarkable achievement reflecting the nation’s vitality and openness. The milestone was reached on June 16, just before 3 pm, according to Statistics Canada’s real-time “population clock.”
Anil Arora, the chief statistician, expressed excitement, highlighting that Canada’s diversity and potential are fundamental driving forces. The current population growth rate is 2.7%, the highest since the post-war baby boom in 1957.
The projection is even more captivating: Canada could hit 50 million by 2043 if current trends persist. Last year alone, the population increased by 1.05 million, with 96% attributed to international migration.
Immigration, a Key Pillar
To tackle demographic challenges, Canada turns to immigration. With an aging population and a birth rate that can’t fuel growth, immigrants are pivotal to maintaining and expanding the workforce.
Almost all of Canada’s labor force growth is due to immigration. 2023 immigrants are anticipated to constitute about 30% of the population.
Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan underpins these dynamics, aiming to welcome over 460,000 new immigrants annually. The focus is threefold: bolstering the economy, reuniting families, and aiding refugees.
2023 the goal is 465,000 new permanent residents, rising to 485,000 and 500,000 in subsequent years. Economic immigration leads the way, followed by family-class immigration and a commitment to humanitarian and refugee efforts.
Canada’s ongoing commitment to embracing newcomers underscores its dynamic trajectory and embrace of diversity.
