The budget balance in relation to the gross domestic product (GDP) in Canada amounted to percent in 2025. Between 1980 and 2025, the budget balance rose by percentage points, though the increase followed an uneven trajectory rather than a consistent upward trend. The budget balance is forecast to decline by percentage points from 2025 to 2031, fluctuating as it trends downward.
The indicator describes the general government net lending / borrowing, which is calculated as revenue minus total expenditure. The International Monetary Fund defines the general government expenditure as consisting of total expenses and the net acquisition of nonfinancial assets. The general government revenue consists of the revenue from taxes, social contributions, grants receivable, and other revenue.