Canada: Artificial Intelligence as a Pillar of Digital Sovereignty

As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries worldwide and a handful of global technology giants dominate the sector, the Canadian government is seeking to regain greater control over the critical infrastructure powering this technological revolution. Prime Minister Mark Carney warned about the risks associated with the country’s reliance on foreign providers, particularly regarding data protection and technological influence. According to him, this dependence could undermine Canada’s sovereignty in a sector that has become strategically important.

The strategy, titled “AI for All,” is built around the development of a national infrastructure capable of supporting the growth of the AI sector. Ottawa plans to strengthen its computing, data storage, and processing capabilities in order to reduce dependence on foreign technology providers. The government also aims to foster the development of AI systems designed in accordance with Canadian values, priorities, and regulatory standards.

The plan also seeks to accelerate AI adoption among Canadian businesses. While only 12% of companies currently use AI technologies, the government aims to increase that figure to 60% by 2034. To achieve this goal, Ottawa intends to roll out accessible AI training programs for the general population while providing stronger support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

From an economic perspective, the government sees AI as a key driver of growth and innovation. The strategy aims to contribute to the creation of up to 250,000 jobs by 2031 and generate nearly CAD 200 billion in economic benefits through productivity gains. Supporting domestic companies is another major priority, with the objective of developing Canadian champions capable of competing on the global stage.

Finally, Canada intends to strengthen its international position by expanding partnerships with countries that share its democratic values. These collaborations are expected to enhance the country’s technological autonomy while enabling it to play an active role in shaping future global AI governance frameworks. For Ottawa, artificial intelligence is no longer merely an economic issue—it has become a cornerstone of national sovereignty.