Competition Bureau issues a revised bulletin on private access to the Competition Tribunal
News release
Canadians are invited to provide their feedback on the Bureau’s views
June 20, 2025 – GATINEAU (Québec), Competition Bureau
The Competition Bureau has published a revised information bulletin presenting its perspective on private access to the Competition Tribunal following recent changes to the Competition Act that expanded access.
This amended guidance explains the Bureau’s views on private access to the Tribunal and clarifies when it may take certain actions that impact proceedings.
Private access to the Competition Tribunal complements the enforcement work carried out by the Competition Bureau by allowing individuals and businesses to take action themselves.
Canadians are invited to submit their feedback by e-mail at cb.PAconsultation-bc.consultationPA@cb-bc.gc.ca by August 19, 2025. Each submission received will be published on the Bureau’s website unless the provider requests that it be kept confidential.
Quick facts
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The Government of Canada recently made significant changes to the Competition Act as part of its efforts to modernize Canada’s competition laws:
- In June 2022, private access to the Competition Tribunal was expanded to include applications related to abuse of dominance.
- More changes to the Act made in June 2024 will come into force on June 20, 2025. These changes further expand private access to the Tribunal including by allowing applications related to deceptive marketing and by easing the legal test used to determine which applications can proceed.
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The Competition Bureau, headed by the Commissioner of Competition, is responsible for the administration and enforcement of Canadian competition law. The Bureau investigates potentially anticompetitive conduct and decides whether to proceed with filing an application to the Tribunal or another court.
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The Competition Tribunal is similar to a court. It hears applications made under certain provisions of the Competition Act and issues orders where appropriate.
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Private access to the Competition Tribunal allows private parties to make applications seeking various orders. Private parties may choose to pursue private access for many reasons, such as if they are a business that is negatively impacted by anti-competitive behavior.
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The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that protects and promotes competition for the benefit of Canadian consumers and businesses. Competition drives lower prices and innovation while fueling economic growth.