The Canadian population is expected to reach 40 million around 3 p.m. Friday, according to Statistics Canada.
The government agency relies on its population clock, a real-time model based on quarterly population estimates, for this prediction.
“This is an important milestone for Canada,” Chief Statistician Anil Arora said in a statement. It is a clear sign that Canada remains a dynamic, welcoming country full of potential. »
The country’s demographic growth is in fact mainly due to international migration. The latter was responsible for 96% of the growth recorded in 2022.
Statistics Canada states that the population growth rate is currently 2.7%, “which represents the highest level since 1957, when immigration and the baby boom helped to increase the Canadian population by 3, 3%”.
According to the agency, in terms of population growth, Canada surpasses the other G7 countries, which are preparing to face the consequences of demographic decline.
Between January 2021 and 2022, Canada saw its population grow by more than one million people for the first time in its history, adds Statistics Canada.
All provinces and territories experienced population growth except the Northwest Territories.
If Canada continues on its path, its population could reach 50 million people in 2043.