2026.06.1911:07:08UTC+00Canada Small Business Confidence Rises in June

Canada’s CFIB Business Barometer long‑term index, which reflects 12‑month forward expectations for business performance, rose to 49.6 in June 2026 from 46.3 in May. In contrast, the short‑term optimism index, based on a 3‑month outlook, fell to 46.1 from 48.1 in the previous month.

Business sentiment deteriorated across most sectors, including retail (48.5 vs. 53.6), transportation and utilities (45.3 vs. 46.7), agriculture (43.0 vs. 45.5), and accommodation and food services (38.8 vs. 47.3), with the majority also posting declines in their short‑term indicators.

Pricing pressures eased slightly, with the average planned price increase edging down to 3.0% from 3.1%, while average wage growth moderated to 2.3% from 2.4%.

Staffing intentions improved marginally, yet overall labor market sentiment remained weak: a larger share of firms continued to anticipate layoffs (13%, down from 16% in May) than new hires (12%, down from 14%).

On the supply side, low demand remained the most frequently cited constraint, reported by 53% of firms. On the cost side, fuel prices continued to be identified as the primary constraint on input supply.