P.E.I. holds up better than the region, but Atlantic growth is slipping
Oct 29, 2026 · Summarized by Fundy Tech from PNI Atlantic News
A new report says P.E.I. is still holding up, but Atlantic Canada is backsliding on key economic and social measures. The report warns the trend is turning downward.
Key points
- Public Policy Forum released its third Atlantic Canada Momentum Index.
- The report tracks 25 economic and social indicators.
- P.E.I. ranked second among the four Atlantic provinces.
The full story
A new report from the non-profit think tank Public Policy Forum says P.E.I. has weathered post-pandemic economic pressures relatively well, but Atlantic Canada is heading toward difficulty unless the region pulls together.
The report is the third Atlantic Canada Momentum Index, titled Navigating the Storm. It uses 25 indicators, including employment rates, immigration attraction and retention, non-emitting energy production and community belonging. It measures momentum using compound annual growth rates.
The first index, released in 2023, was upbeat. It said 16 of 20 indicators showed momentum and described Atlantic Canada as becoming a “have-not no more” region. But the 2024 version found only 16 of 25 indicators showing momentum, and the 2025 report says that has slipped further to 15.
Carole Lee Reinhardt, director-Atlantic of the Public Policy Forum and one of the authors, said the concern is the trend line. She said P.E.I. “held its own” and credited Island industry for being innovative. The report says New Brunswick ranked first among the provinces, P.E.I. second, Newfoundland and Labrador third and Nova Scotia fourth.
P.E.I.’s positive results include population growth, real export growth, housing starts and non-residential investment. But the report also points to challenges such as slowed immigration and high housing costs. It says the Island has limited mining and military procurement opportunities, while some renewable energy projects are still years away.
Why it matters
For Atlantic businesses and households, the report points to slower momentum in jobs, population growth and investment. That can affect hiring, housing, and how much money circulates locally.
Who’s affected: Atlantic Canada businesses, workers and households
What’s next
No decision date is mentioned. The report says leaders and policymakers need to respond to the downward trend.
What to do
- Watch for local job and housing impacts.
- Follow provincial investment and immigration plans.
- Track the next round of regional economic data.
Original reporting
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