Vancouver: The federal government says it has spent the year ramping up border security and also released a summary today that outlines new technology and operational changes aimed at strengthening the Canada–U.S. border and cracking down on cross-border crime.
“National security starts at the border, and the results from 2025 speak for themselves. The Government of Canada invested in new tools, deployed more personnel, and worked closely with our partners to ensure that organized crime networks and illicit goods are stopped before they can reach our communities. Protecting Canadians is our top priority, and we will continue to build on this momentum in the year ahead.” Said Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety.
Authorities while sharing the details said the Government of Canada is investing $1.3 billion in concrete action to keep communities safe on both sides of the border. In 2025, the Government of Canada’s border-strengthening measures led to measurable outcomes and actions, including 98% fewer apprehensions of individuals crossing illegally from Canada into the United States in October 2025 compared to peak volumes in June 2024. Asylum claims are down by a third from last year and Over 1,000 lb of fentanyl intercepted through combined operations.
Apart from it, the CBSA procured new detection technology tools, including three new Mobile Large Scale Imager trucks already at locations across the country. Thanks to over $11M of investment made into major x-ray infrastructure that enables the CBSA to efficiently and effectively identify suspected contraband and stolen vehicles hidden in containers at marine and land ports of entry.
The CBSA has made more than 170 Level 4 currency seizures (suspicion of money laundering), totaling close to $3.5 million under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act in the year. The Agency also launched the Trade Transparency Unit to improve its capacity to detect and disrupt cross-border movements of illicit financial flows through international trade, and introduced new regulatory authorities to enforce importer and exporter compliance.
“Synthetic opioids like fentanyl and other illegal drugs pose a devastating threat to the health of our communities. By investing in, and enhancing, surveillance and analysis capabilities this year, as well as implementing additional controls on precursor chemicals, Health Canada played a key role in supporting law and border enforcement efforts to detect and disrupt the illegal drug trade. As we move into 2026, our government is committed to continue its efforts to protect the safety and health of our communities.” Said Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health.
Key milestones were achieved across all priority areas, from immigration and trade to combating auto theft and the flow of illegal drugs, including fentanyl and its precursors, into Canada. These achievements were made possible through close collaboration between the key federal departments and agencies, demonstrating that when it comes to the safety and prosperity of Canadians, the federal government is united and effective.
“Canada’s immigration system must remain firm, fair and responsive to a changing world. In 2025, we took decisive action to restore control and integrity, cracking down on fraud and misuse, reducing non-genuine travel and combatting irregular border crossings. Through Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan and proposed legislation like Bill C-12, we’re modernizing how the system responds to pressure—so we can manage volumes, protect public safety, and continue to welcome those who contribute to Canada in an orderly and responsible way.” Said Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship