Canada’s Population Falls in Third Quarter, First Decline Since Pandemic Lockdowns

The Wall Street JournalWednesday, December 17, 2025 at 6:27:00 PM
Canada’s Population Falls in Third Quarter, First Decline Since Pandemic Lockdowns
  • Canada’s population has decreased by 76,068 individuals between July 1 and October 1, marking a 0.2% decline to a total of 41.58 million. This is the first population drop since the pandemic lockdowns, indicating a significant demographic shift.
  • The decline in population is particularly concerning as it reflects changing public attitudes towards immigration, which have become increasingly negative. This shift follows a crackdown on international students and a reversal of previously welcoming immigration policies.
  • This population decrease occurs alongside a surprising GDP growth of 2.6% in the same quarter, highlighting a complex economic landscape where growth is juxtaposed with demographic challenges. The reliance on immigration for economic stability is being questioned, raising concerns about the long-term implications for Canada’s labor market and economic resilience.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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