Potato industry on PEI to save up to $7 million because of cuts to bridge tolls

Significant toll cuts on Confederation Bridge and ferries bring relief to Atlantic Canada’s small businesses, including agribusiness.

Effective August 1, 2025, tolls on the Confederation Bridge will drop dramatically, with personal vehicle tolls falling from $50.25 to $20. Commercial vehicles will also benefit from these reductions. In addition, ferry tolls in Newfoundland and Labrador and other regions will see reductions, further supporting businesses across the Atlantic provinces.  

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) has praised the federal government’s decision to significantly reduce tolls on the Confederation Bridge and regional ferry routes. This long-awaited action is set to ease the financial burden on small businesses across Atlantic Canada. 

“This is an important moment for small businesses in Atlantic Canada,” said Frédéric Gionet, CFIB’s Director for the region. “For too long, high tolls on critical transportation links have made it more expensive to do business, move goods, and connect communities. Today’s announcement represents meaningful relief.” 

CFIB’s research in Prince Edward Island highlighted the toll's impact on local businesses, showing that 76% of small business owners supported the full elimination of the bridge toll. The potato industry alone lost over $7 million annually due to the toll, while one-third of businesses reported tolls affecting their pricing. 

This move is a step in the right direction, as CFIB has consistently advocated for toll relief measures that are inclusive, practical, and implemented quickly. “Today’s announcement is a positive step — it’s inclusive, practical, and being implemented quickly,” added Gionet. “It addresses a real barrier for small businesses. We’re hopeful this sets the stage for continued progress on interprovincial trade and access, where considerably more work still needs to be done.” 

“We thank Prime Minister Carney and the federal government for listening to small business owners and taking meaningful action,” said Gionet. “This is a strong example of how targeted policy changes can make a real difference. CFIB has worked tirelessly to bring these issues forward, and we also recognize the efforts of many others — including former Premier King, Premier Lantz, Senator Percy Downe, and Atlantic MPs. It’s encouraging to see momentum on an issue that all major parties recognized as important during the last election.” 

With broader ferry toll reductions across the region, small trucking firms, seafood exporters, and tourism operators can now navigate these logistical challenges more effectively. The CFIB is optimistic that these actions will help reduce transportation costs and improve the competitiveness of small businesses. 

Photo Credit: Government of PEI