Canada: Strategy

Canada is proposing to eliminate its federal zero-emission vehicle sales mandate and replace it with technology-neutral greenhouse gas emission standards. The shift comes amid declining EV sales, affordability concerns, and trade uncertainty with the United States, raising questions about how the automotive industry will balance climate goals with market realities. What will this regulatory transformation mean for manufacturers, consumers, and Canada's electrification timeline?

Canada has ratified the UK's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), opening new trade opportunities between the two nations. Beginning September 1, 2026, qualifying goods traded between Canada and the UK may benefit from preferential tariff rates under the agreement, with full reductions phased in by January 1, 2028.

Canada's federal government is seeking public input on AI transparency measures that could introduce new disclosure obligations, incident reporting requirements, and tracking mechanisms for AI systems. Organizations have until September 23, 2026 to influence the regulatory framework before it takes shape through potential legislation, standards, or mandatory requirements.

On July 29, 2026, the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and the Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) published joint Staff Notice 81-339 – Industry Practices Relating to Foreign-Listed Exchange-Traded Funds (the Foreign ETF Notice).

Registered Disability Savings Plans offer eligible Canadians a powerful tool to build tax-deferred savings for life after 60, complete with government matching grants up to $70,000 and bonds up to $20,000. Despite these significant benefits, only one-third of eligible Canadians have opened an RDSP. Understanding how these plans work, including contribution limits, withdrawal rules, and eligibility requirements, can help individuals with disabilities secure their financial future.

The global secondaries market has experienced explosive growth, with evergreen funds now commanding 41% of the $113 billion raised in 2025. These perpetual capital vehicles are fundamentally altering competitive dynamics, pricing expectations, and strategic considerations for both fund sponsors and institutional investors.

For AI developers, the privacy risks of generative AI may extend well beyond the intended uses of their products. A recent finding by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (“OPC”) against X Corp. and xAI underscores that organizations may remain accountable when their AI systems enable the processing of personal information for harmful or foreseeable misuse.

Manufacturing operations face critical vulnerabilities when key suppliers fail unexpectedly. This analysis examines how excessive supplier dependency creates operational risk, explores the warning signs of supply chain exposure, and provides a framework for assessing whether your organization can withstand a sudden supplier disruption.

When a major manufacturer makes an investment of this scale, the business opportunity extends far beyond the four walls of the facility being built. It can create demand across an ecosystem of suppliers, subcontractors, fabricators, automation providers, logistics companies, technical service providers and component manufacturers. But that doesn’t mean it’s an automatic growth opportunity for every supplier.

Legal professionals John Coldham and Kate Swaine provide expert insights and analysis on emerging legal developments. Stay informed about critical changes in law and regulation that may impact your business or practice. Subscribe to receive timely updates and professional guidance on navigating complex legal landscapes.

Clark Wilson LLP's News & Insights hub showcases the firm's expertise across diverse legal practice areas through articles, case studies, and resources. From business succession and construction law to privacy legislation and family matters, discover how Vancouver's leading lawyers analyze emerging legal trends and provide practical guidance for businesses and individuals navigating complex legal landscapes.

Torys law firm celebrates the graduation of its sixth cohort from the exclusive Torys-Rotman Business Leadership Program, a comprehensive training initiative designed to enhance lawyers' strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and client relationship skills through interactive modules and collaborative learning experiences.