Canada launches new platform for consultations and seeks input on regulatory barriers to trade

April 27, 2022 – Ottawa, Ontario – Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

Effective regulations protect the health, safety, environment and economic well-being of Canadians. Modernizing our regulatory system improves Canada's ability to attract investment and growth-oriented businesses.

Today, the President of the Treasury Board, the Honourable Mona Fortier, launched Let’s Talk Federal Regulations, a consultation platform that will strengthen transparency and participation in the regulatory system by inviting discussions with and among stakeholders in interactive and dynamic ways.

As part of the first consultation using the new platform, Canadians are being invited to provide input on regulatory barriers impeding trade such as duplicative requirements between jurisdictions or divergent standards like energy efficiency standards for appliances. They are also encouraged to share insights on new challenges or opportunities arising from a new post-pandemic reality. Input received on Let’s Talk Federal Regulations will be visible to the public, enabling participants to view comments and engage in an open and transparent conversation.

Outcomes from Let’s Talk Federal Regulations will help prioritize inter-jurisdictional regulatory issues and opportunities for alignment and help inform Canada’s position for international regulatory cooperation forums.

Cooperation across borders within Canada and on the international scene has proven effective in reducing unnecessary regulatory differences, eliminating duplicative requirements, sharing information, fostering innovation and adopting international standards.

The Government of Canada anticipates launching additional consultations through the Let’s Talk Federal Regulations platform in the coming months.

The initial consultation will be open until June 27, 2022.