Ministers Acknowledge Telecom Firms’ Plans for AI Infrastructure Despite US Tariffs
On May 29, 2025, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada published a statement from Ministers Mélanie Joly and Evan Solomon regarding announcements by Canadian telecommunications companies on plans to build artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.
In the statement, the ministers identified companies such as Bell and Telus as corporations planning investments in infrastructure to support AI technologies in Canada. They stated that these private sector investments are intended to create jobs, provide opportunities for workers, and support the development and adoption of AI technologies in the country.
The ministers referenced recent tariffs imposed by the United States, describing the situation as a "time of crisis." According to the ministers, investments by the telecommunications companies are proceeding despite these tariffs. The statement further attributed to the ministers that these industry actions are aligned with the government's intention to build what they called the "strongest economy in the G7."
The ministers said the investments are meant to ensure Canadians have access to advanced technologies. No specific details about project locations or implementation timelines were included in the statement.
The complete statement is available on the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada website.