The Quebec government has announced a projected deficit of $8.6 billion for the fiscal year 2026-27, a slight improvement from the $9.9 billion deficit expected for 2025-26. The total budget for 2026-27 is set at $170.8 billion, reflecting the province’s ongoing economic challenges.
Quebec Finance Minister Eric Girard emphasized the importance of maintaining solid economic foundations, stating, “The economic foundations of Quebec are solid.” However, he also acknowledged the difficulties in budgeting, remarking, “Every budget is a major headache.”
In an effort to address these challenges, the budget includes plans to increase infrastructure investments by more than $2 billion over the next six years. Additionally, $2 billion is allocated for healthcare and social services over the next five years, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving public health.
Alongside these investments, the budget sets aside $250 million per year for the next leader of the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) to utilize for electoral promises, indicating a strategic approach as the province heads toward a general election.
The budget projects a modest GDP growth of 1.1% in 2026 and 1.4% in 2027, with a net debt-to-GDP ratio anticipated to be 38.9% in 2026-27. The government aims for a balanced budget by 2029-30, although the long-term applicability of these fiscal plans remains uncertain due to the upcoming leadership race and election.
Critics have voiced concerns regarding the budget’s alignment with public priorities. Pascal Paradis of the Parti Québécois stated, “What we want is the budget plan of the future premier — and that is not what we are getting today.” Meanwhile, Ruba Ghazal from Québec Solidaire criticized the budget as being focused on CAQ priorities rather than the needs of the people.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact amounts allotted for specific institutions in healthcare, leaving some observers questioning the effectiveness of the proposed investments. As the budget unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring its implementation and the impact on Quebec’s economic landscape.
