Canada Gazette, Part I, Volume 157, Number 20: GOVERNMENT NOTICES

May 20, 2023

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999

Ministerial Condition No. 21471

Ministerial condition
(Paragraph 84(1)(a) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999)

Whereas the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Health (the ministers) have assessed information pertaining to the substance ethane, 1-ethoxy-2-(2-methoxyethoxy)-, Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number 1002-67-1;

And whereas the ministers suspect that the substance is toxic or capable of becoming toxic within the meaning of section 64 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (the Act),

The Minister of the Environment, pursuant to paragraph 84(1)(a) of the Act, hereby permits the manufacture or import of the substance in accordance with the conditions of the following annex.

Marc D’Iorio
Assistant Deputy Minister
Science and Technology Branch
On behalf of the Minister of the Environment

ANNEX

Conditions
(Paragraph 84(1)(a) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999)

1. The following definitions apply in these ministerial conditions:

“notifier”
means the person who has, on January 21, 2023, provided to the Minister of the Environment the prescribed information concerning the substance, in accordance with subsection 81(1) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999;
“substance”
means ethane, 1-ethoxy-2-(2-methoxyethoxy)-, Chemical Abstracts Service Registry Number 1002-67-1.

2. The notifier may manufacture or import the substance subject to the present ministerial conditions.

Restrictions

3. The notifier shall only import or manufacture the substance if

4. The notifier shall transfer the physical possession or control of the substance only to a person who agrees to use it in accordance with section 3.

Other requirements

5. The notifier shall, prior to transferring the physical possession or control of the substance to any person,

Record-keeping requirements

6. (1) The notifier shall maintain electronic or paper records, with any documentation supporting the validity of the information contained in these records, indicating

(2) If the address referred to in paragraph (1)(c) changes, the notifier must update the electronic or paper records mentioned in subsection (1) accordingly within 30 days after the change.

(3) The notifier shall create the electronic or paper records mentioned in subsection (1) no later than 30 days after the date the information or documents become available.

(4) The notifier shall maintain the electronic or paper records mentioned in subsection (1)

(5) Any records mentioned in subsection (1) that are kept electronically must be in an electronically readable format.

Coming into force

7. The present ministerial conditions come into force on May 10, 2023.

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999

Order 2023-66-01-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List

The Minister of the Environment makes the annexed Order 2023-66-01-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List under subsection 66(2) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 footnote a.

Gatineau, May 9, 2023

Steven Guilbeault
Minister of the Environment

Order 2023-66-01-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List

Amendments

1 Part I of the Non-domestic Substances List footnote 1

is amended by adding the following in numerical order:

2 Part II of the List is amended by adding the following in numerical order:
19581-9 Alkanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-, compd. with [[[[3-(diethylamino)propyl]amino]heterocycle]amino]-[(dihydro-oxo-heteropolycycle)azo]hydroxy-carbopolycyclesulfonic acid (1:1)
19591-9 Poly[oxy(methyl-alkanediyl)], α-hydro-ω-hydroxy-, polymer with diisocyanatoalkane, substituted-polymethyl-heteromonocycleoxy-blocked
19600-8 2-Propenoic acid, polymer with substituted alkanol, bis(hydroxymethyl)alkanediol, (alkanediyl) di-2-propenoate and heteromonocycle
19611-9 Benzenesulfonic acid, 4-amino-, reaction products with diazotized 4,4′-methylenebis[2,6-dimethylbenzenamine], N-(2-methoxyphenyl)-3-oxoalkanamide and 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine, hydrolyzed
19618-6 Carbomonocycle substituted acid, [(9,10-dihydro-9,10-dioxo-1,4-anthracenediyl)diimino]bis[trialkyl-, compd. with 1,6-hexanediamine (1:1)
19635-3 Carbopolycycledicarboxylic acid, metal salt (1:1)
19637-5 Phosphorane, pentahalo-, polymer with ammonium halide, P-carbomonocyclic oxy derivs.

Coming into Force

3 This Order comes into force on the day on which it is published in the Canada Gazette.

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT

CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999

Order 2023-87-06-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List

Whereas, under subsections 87(1) and (5) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 footnote a, the Minister of the Environment has added the substances referred to in the annexed Order to the Domestic Substances List footnote b;

Therefore, the Minister of the Environment makes the annexed Order 2023-87-06-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List under subsections 87(1) and (5) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 footnote a.

Gatineau, May 9, 2023

Steven Guilbeault
Minister of the Environment

Order 2023-87-06-02 Amending the Non-domestic Substances List

Amendment

1 Part I of the Non-domestic Substances List footnote 1 is amended by deleting the following:

Coming into Force

2 This Order comes into force on the day on which Order 2023-87-06-01 Amending the Domestic Substances List comes into force.

DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999

Publication of the draft state of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) report (paragraphs 68(b) and (c) of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999)

Whereas the Government of Canada has developed a draft state of PFAS report pursuant to paragraphs 68(b) and (c) of the Act;

Whereas an executive summary of the draft report prepared on the class of PFASs is annexed hereby;

And whereas it is proposed to conclude that the class of PFASs meets one or more criteria set out in section 64 of the Act,

Notice therefore is hereby given that the Minister of the Environment and the Minister of Health (the ministers) propose to recommend to Her Excellency the Governor in Council that the class of PFASs be added to Schedule 1 to the Act.

Notice is furthermore given that the ministers have released a risk management scope document for the class of PFASs to initiate discussions with stakeholders on the development of risk management options.

Public comment period

Any person may, within 60 days after publication of this notice, file with the Minister of the Environment written comments on the considerations in the report. More information regarding the considerations may be obtained from the Canada.ca (Chemical substances) website. All comments must cite the Canada Gazette, Part I, and the date of publication of this notice and be addressed to the Executive Director, Program Development and Engagement Division, Department of the Environment, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H3, by email to substances@ec.gc.ca or by using the online reporting system available through Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Single Window.

In accordance with section 313 of the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, any person who provides information in response to this notice may submit with the information a request that it be treated as confidential.

Jacqueline Gonçalves
Director General
Science and Risk Assessment Directorate
On behalf of the Minister of the Environment

Cécile Siewe
Director General
Industrial Sectors and Chemicals Directorate
On behalf of the Minister of the Environment

Greg Carreau
Director General
Safe Environments Directorate
On behalf of the Minister of Health

ANNEX

Executive summary of the draft state of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances report

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of over 4 700 human-made substances. These substances have a wide range of uses in products available to consumers, industrial applications, and other specialized applications. The widespread use of these substances and their extreme persistence in the environment, propensity for accumulation, and mobility has led to PFASs being commonly detected in the environment and humans. Despite data having largely been generated on a limited suite of well-studied PFASs, there is a growing body of evidence that exposure to other PFASs can lead to adverse effects on the environment and human health. Cumulative effects from co-exposure to multiple PFASs may also occur.

The report provides a qualitative assessment of the fate, sources, occurrence, and potential impacts of PFASs on the environment and human health to inform decision-making on PFASs in Canada.

The common chemical characteristic of PFASs is their perfluoroalkyl moiety, which is extremely stable in the environment, to the extent that PFASs have often been termed “forever chemicals.” Simple PFASs are highly persistent, whereas more complex molecules transform into stable PFASs. In the report, the term PFASs refers to the broad chemical definition by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), which — with a few noted exceptions — includes any chemical with at least a perfluorinated methyl group (–CF3) or a perfluorinated methylene group (–CF2–). This definition captures substances with a wide range of structures and properties, from discrete chemicals such as perfluorocarboxylic acids, perfluorosulfonic acids, and fluorotelomer alcohols, to side-chain fluorinated polymers and high molecular weight fluoropolymers. Some PFAS on the market also possess structural attributes other than perfluoroalkyl chains (e.g. inclusion of ether linkages or chlorine atoms in the fluorinated hydrocarbon chains).

The desirable properties of PFASs (including their oil and water repellency, high chemical, physical and thermal resistance to degradation, and low surface tension) have led to their use in a wide range of products available to consumers and in industrial applications. Some typical uses of PFASs include surfactants, lubricants, and repellents (for dirt, water and grease). PFASs can also be found in certain firefighting foams (i.e. aqueous film-forming foams [AFFF]), textiles (e.g. carpets, furniture and clothing), cosmetics, and food packaging materials.

There are many potential sources of PFASs in Canada that can lead to human exposure and releases to the environment. Humans can be exposed to PFASs from various sources such as food and food packaging, cosmetics, products available to consumers, ambient air, indoor air and dust, and drinking water. Furthermore, PFAS-impacted contaminated sites represent “hot spot” areas across Canada where Canadians and the environment may be exposed to elevated concentrations of PFASs. Such sites include those associated with the use of AFFFs, typically released during activities associated with fighting fuel fires, including training activities and maintenance of firefighting equipment at airports and military facilities. As it is not possible to separate PFAS-containing waste from the general waste stream, PFAS-containing products can be found in municipal solid waste (MSW) landfills or are destined for MSW incineration. Composting of PFAS-containing food packaging, releases into wastewater treatment systems, and the application of biosolids to land provide additional routes of entry for PFASs into the environment. It should be noted that PFAS contamination is present throughout Canada and is not limited to a few sources or areas.

Once PFASs are released into the environment, their physical and chemical properties influence their fate and behaviour. Neutral PFASs (e.g. fluorotelomer alcohols) may be more volatile and therefore more likely to be found in the atmosphere. Fluorotelomer alcohols as well as other polyfluoroalkyl substances and some side-chain fluorinated polymers can undergo transformation to form other more stable PFAS that are extremely persistent in the environment under ambient conditions. Ionic PFASs (which are predominantly ionized at environmental pH) such as perfluorocarboxylic acids and perfluorosulfonic acids are water soluble and non-volatile, and thus partition predominantly to water where they can mobilize. Some shorter-chain PFASs, adopted in place of prohibited long-chain PFASs, have proven to be even more mobile on a local scale, potentially leading to transfer to food crops and drinking water. Some PFASs are also capable of undergoing long-range transport in the atmosphere (i.e. for neutral, volatile PFASs) or in global ocean currents (i.e. for ionic PFASs), as evidenced by their widespread distribution around the world, including in remote regions. Experience with contaminated sites management has also indicated that PFASs are very challenging to remove from environmental media, and it is not possible to remove them from the broader environment.

Globally, PFASs can be found in virtually all environmental compartments, including air, surface and groundwater, oceans and soils as well as in wastewater influent and effluent, landfill leachate, sewage sludge, and contaminated sites. While the highest reported concentrations are typically in proximity to known sources of release, PFASs are also routinely reported in locations far removed from these sources. Similarly, although the highest concentrations of PFASs in organisms have been noted in proximity to known releases, their ubiquitous presence has been noted in tissue samples collected from organisms worldwide. While the number of PFASs that have been examined in studies to date has been limited, studies have increasingly noted the frequent detection of a range of PFASs. Monitoring and research activities in Canada are being conducted to better understand trends in PFAS occurrence in Canadian ecosystems and wildlife. Thus far, these activities have confirmed the ubiquitous presence of PFASs throughout Canada.

Depending on the substance’s physical and chemical properties, certain PFASs have been found to bioaccumulate in biota. PFASs have also been reported to significantly biomagnify (i.e. to accumulate to increasingly higher levels up the food chain) in air-breathing organisms (e.g. mammals, birds), which can increase the likelihood of adverse effects being observed. Ecotoxic effects such as immunotoxicity and neurotoxicity, as well as effects on growth, reproduction, and development, have been reported in the literature, although there are still significant data gaps for certain species, subgroups of PFASs, and types of effects studied.

Currently, only a small number of PFASs are monitored in human biomonitoring surveys. Certain PFASs have been found in the blood (plasma or serum) of the general population in Canada and internationally. PFASs can also be transferred through the placenta, and infants and children can be exposed to PFASs through ingestion of human milk. A number of subpopulations were identified as having a potential for greater exposure to PFASs. Northern Indigenous communities (as measured in adults, including pregnant women) as well as Indigenous youth and children in other parts of Canada were found to have elevated levels of certain PFASs. Firefighters internationally were also found to have elevated levels of certain PFASs. Canadian firefighters and people living in the vicinity of sites contaminated with PFASs (e.g. associated with the use of AFFFs) may also be disproportionately exposed to higher levels of PFASs, although specific Canadian biomonitoring information was not available for these subpopulations.

In humans, some well-studied PFASs can be readily absorbed in the body and bind to proteins in the blood. These PFASs can then be distributed through the bloodstream and accumulate in well perfused tissues (e.g. liver and kidneys). Some of the studied PFAS have been shown to be eliminated very slowly from the human body. Toxicological (in vitro and in vivo) and human epidemiological information is only available for a limited number of PFASs. On the basis of these studies, it is evident that exposure to PFASs has the potential to cause effects of concern to human health. Furthermore, recent information on well-studied PFASs, particularly perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), shows negative effects on human health at lower levels than in previous studies. Effects commonly reported in animal studies include effects on the liver, kidney, thyroid, immune system, nervous system, metabolism and body weight, and reproduction and development. Outcomes of human epidemiological studies involve similar organs/systems/endpoints.

Although the vast majority of toxicology and epidemiology studies have focused on the effects from exposure to a single PFAS, biota and humans typically experience exposure to many PFASs at a given time, as can be seen from environmental sampling and biomonitoring data. A limited number of studies have evaluated the interactive effect of multiple PFASs on different endpoints; however, given the vast number and ubiquity of PFASs, it is reasonable to assume that cumulative effects may occur. The Government of Canada has been actively studying the ecological and human health effects associated with exposure to PFASs, including through the use of new approach methods to characterize multiple PFASs in biological and environmental media at the same time. These studies confirm the environmental presence of PFAS mixtures that include many substances that are not targeted in typical monitoring and surveillance studies. In addition to specific initiatives, there are ongoing environmental and human monitoring and surveillance programs to address subpopulations that may be more susceptible or highly exposed, including pregnant women and children, Indigenous and northern communities in Canada, and firefighters.

Canada has acted to address PFASs for which early evidence had indicated potential concerns for the environment or human health. A limited number of subgroups of PFASs are subject to risk management controls in Canada. The manufacture, use, sale, offer for sale, and import of PFOSs, PFOAs, long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, and their salts and precursors are prohibited under the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2012, with a limited number of exemptions. Proposed regulations that would repeal and replace the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2012 were also published in May 2022, which propose to further restrict these groups of substances by removing or providing time limits for most remaining exemptions. Some PFASs notified under the New Substances Notification Regulations (Chemicals and Polymers) have also been subject to prohibitions, ministerial conditions, and significant new activity provisions under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA). It has been observed that shorter-chain PFASs have been used as substitutes for long-chain PFASs (carbon chain length of eight or more) following the implementation of regulatory restrictions on the latter.

Other domestic activities that target PFASs include the development of water and soil guidelines for the protection of human health and the environment by the Government of Canada or through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME), the reduction of risks from known federal contaminated sites through the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan and the reduction of the anthropogenic release of chemicals of mutual concern into the Great Lakes under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. Regulations for the import, export, and manufacture of certain ozone-depleting substances and concerning halocarbon alternatives are also set out under the Ozone-depleting Substances and Halocarbon Alternatives Regulations.

The Government of Canada works with other governments internationally on initiatives that address PFASs, including through the OECD and the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. For example, Canada has successfully nominated long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids, their salts, and related compounds for addition to the Stockholm Convention.

Given the significant data gaps for most PFASs and the complexity and magnitude of the group, continuing to assess and manage risks of individual PFASs or small groups of PFASs is impractical and does not address the broader concern posed by these substances. Complexities include the nature of their physical and chemical properties, unique environmental fate and behaviour characteristics, and co-exposure to multiple PFASs in biota and humans. Generating data and applying a quantitative risk analysis and management approach would take an extremely long time; meanwhile, exposures of the environment and humans would continue to increase, and new PFASs would continue to be created or used in Canada.

The broad use of PFASs and their consequent ubiquitous presence in the environment have resulted in continuous environmental and human exposure to multiple PFASs, with well-studied PFASs demonstrating the potential to affect multiple systems and organs in both humans and wildlife. Certain PFASs may potentially bioaccumulate and biomagnify in food webs to an extent that can cause adverse effects in biota at low environmental concentrations; recent information on well-studied PFASs, particularly PFOAs and PFOSs, also shows negative human health effects at lower levels than indicated by previous studies. As a result of the extreme persistence of PFASs, their potential for bioaccumulation in organisms and biomagnification through the food chain, their ability to move locally and over long ranges, and the difficulty of their removal from the broader environment, environmental concentrations and uptake by biota and humans will increase in the absence of intervention. Additionally, the potential for cumulative exposure and effects are important considerations as most wildlife and human exposures involve an unknown mixture of PFASs.

Despite uncertainties associated with understanding the characteristics of substances across the range of PFAS structures from toxicological, epidemiological and monitoring datasets that are focused on a limited number of PFASs, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that concerns identified for well-studied PFASs are more broadly applicable than previously believed. Similarly, while the specific hazards associated with mixtures of PFASs are largely unknown, there are many potential sources of PFASs that can lead to exposure and it is reasonable to assume that cumulative effects may occur from exposure to multiple PFASs.

Consistent with application of precautionary assumptions that are protective of human health and the environment when addressing gaps in information, it is necessary to anticipate that hazardous properties identified for PFASs that have been well studied may also be inherent in other substances in the class, and that combined exposure to multiple PFASs increases the likelihood of detrimental impacts.

Proposed overall conclusion

Owing to the extreme persistence of these substances, impacts on the environment are expected to increase if entry to the environment continues. On the basis of what is known about well-studied PFASs and the potential for other PFASs to behave similarly, it is proposed to conclude that the class of PFASs meets the criterion under paragraph 64(a) of CEPA, as these substances are entering or may enter the environment in a quantity or concentration or under conditions that have or may have immediate or long-term harmful effects on the environment or its biological diversity. However, it is proposed to conclude that the class of PFASs does not meet the criterion under paragraph 64(b) of CEPA, as these substances are not entering the environment in a quantity or concentration or under conditions that constitute or may constitute a danger to the environment on which life depends.

Owing to the widespread use of PFASs combined with their ubiquitous presence in the environment, humans are continuously exposed to multiple PFASs, which have the potential to cause adverse effects of concern. On the basis of what is known about well-studied PFASs and the potential for other PFASs to behave similarly, and on the expectation that combined exposures to multiple PFASs increase the likelihood of detrimental impacts, it is proposed to conclude that the class of PFASs meets the criterion under paragraph 64(c) of CEPA, as these substances are entering or may enter the environment in a quantity or concentration or under conditions that constitute or may constitute a danger in Canada to human life or health.

Therefore, it is proposed to conclude that the class of PFASs meets one or more of the criteria set out in section 64 of CEPA.

The draft state of PFAS report and risk management scope document are available on the Canada.ca (Chemical substances) website.

OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

INSURANCE COMPANIES ACT

PURE Insurance — Order to insure in Canada risks

Notice is hereby given of the issuance, pursuant to subsection 574(1) of the Insurance Companies Act, of an order to insure in Canada risks, effective February 9, 2023, authorizing Privilege Underwriters Reciprocal Exchange under the name, in English, PURE Insurance, and, in French, PURE Assurances, to insure risks falling within the classes of automobile insurance, liability insurance, marine insurance and property insurance.

May 20, 2023

Peter Routledge
Superintendent of Financial Institutions

PRIVY COUNCIL OFFICE

Appointment opportunities

We know that our country is stronger — and our government more effective — when decision-makers reflect Canada’s diversity. The Government of Canada has implemented an appointment process that is transparent and merit-based, strives for gender parity, and ensures that Indigenous peoples and minority groups are properly represented in positions of leadership. We continue to search for Canadians who reflect the values that we all embrace: inclusion, honesty, fiscal prudence, and generosity of spirit. Together, we will build a government as diverse as Canada.

We are equally committed to providing a healthy workplace that supports one’s dignity, self-esteem and the ability to work to one’s full potential. With this in mind, all appointees will be expected to take steps to promote and maintain a healthy, respectful and harassment-free work environment.

The Government of Canada is currently seeking applications from diverse and talented Canadians from across the country who are interested in the following positions.

Current opportunities

The following opportunities for appointments to Governor in Council positions are currently open for applications. Every opportunity is open for a minimum of two weeks from the date of posting on the Governor in Council appointments website.

Governor in Council appointment opportunities
Position Organization Closing date
Director Asia-Pacific Foundation of Canada  
Director Atomic Energy of Canada Limited  
Director Bank of Canada  
Chairperson Business Development Bank of Canada  
Director Business Development Bank of Canada  
Director Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation  
Director Canada Foundation for Sustainable Development Technology  
Director Canada Revenue Agency  
Director Canadian Commercial Corporation  
Member Canadian Cultural Property Export Review Board  
Director Canadian Energy Regulator  
Chief Commissioner Canadian Grain Commission  
Chief Commissioner Canadian Human Rights Commission  
Pay Equity Commissioner Canadian Human Rights Commission  
Member Canadian Human Rights Tribunal  
Member Canadian Institutes of Health Research  
President Canadian Institutes of Health Research  
Member Canadian International Trade Tribunal  
Trustee Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21  
Permanent Member Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission  
President Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission  
Member Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission  
Member Canadian Statistics Advisory Council  
Director Canadian Tourism Commission  
Chairperson Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board  
Member Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board  
Member Canadian Transportation Agency  
Director Export Development Canada  
Director First Nations Financial Management Board  
Commissioner First Nations Tax Commission  
Member Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada  
Commissioner International Commission on the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas  
President International Development Research Centre  
Commissioner International Joint Commission  
Chairperson Military Grievances External Review Committee  
Vice-Chairperson Military Grievances External Review Committee  
Chairperson National Advisory Council on Poverty  
Member National Advisory Council on Poverty  
Member (Children’s Issues) National Advisory Council on Poverty  
Commissioner National Battlefields Commission  
Director National Gallery of Canada  
Member Net-Zero Advisory Body  
Canadian Representative North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organization  
Canadian Representative North Pacific Anadromous Fish Commission  
Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner  
Public Sector Integrity Commissioner Office of the Public Sector Integrity Commissioner  
Member Patented Medicine Prices Review Board  
Vice-Chairperson Patented Medicine Prices Review Board  
Commissioner Public Service Commission  
President Public Service Commission  
Principal Royal Military College of Canada  
Member Standards Council of Canada  
Chief Executive Officer Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority  

GLOBAL AFFAIRS CANADA

Consultations on a proposed Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy

The Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development was mandated by the Prime Minister to develop a strategy for economic cooperation across Africa. The Strategy will include support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), facilitating investments in infrastructure, and expanded partnerships in research and innovation. The proposed Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy (CA-ECS) will seek to facilitate increased and diversified trade and investment with African partners in line with Canada’s export diversification strategy, advance an inclusive and sustainable approach to trade, strengthen the rules-based international trading system, and contribute meaningfully to Canada and Africa’s overall economic, social and environmental priorities.

The Government of Canada is seeking the views of the Canadian public and interested stakeholders to help define our priorities in the development of this strategy.

We are working to ensure that the benefits and opportunities that flow from trade, investment and innovation are more widely shared. We encourage groups traditionally underrepresented in international trade and investment, such as women; micro, small and medium-sized enterprises; and Indigenous peoples, as well as African diaspora communities, to provide input.

Background

Africa is home to a wide variety of markets, from the advanced economy of South Africa, middle-income countries such as Botswana and Namibia, and coastal countries with strong developing economies characterized by investment-friendly business environments, such as Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, and Morocco. The growing workforce, rapid urbanization, ongoing improvements in governance, economic management, and stability underpin their positive economic trajectories. There are also a number of countries with challenging economic environments.


The African continent, which includes 20% of the earth’s surface, 60% of the world’s arable land, and 30% of the world’s mineral deposits, including the critical minerals needed in green and digital technologies and renewable energy, has vast economic potential and significant strategic importance. By 2050, Africa will have a population of 2.53 billion people and 1 in 4 people worldwide will be living in Sub-Saharan Africa: it is a growing market that will be home to the youngest population of any continent. African countries are, moreover, essential partners if the world is to achieve its biodiversity and climate mitigation and adaptation goals.

The development of a Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy is timely, particularly as African countries work to implement the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Trading under the Agreement has started among a limited number of countries, and full implementation is expected by 2035. According to a World Bank report (PDF) issued in 2020, by 2035, the AfCFTA will boost regional incomes by 7%, or $450 billion. Once fully implemented, it will constitute a single market with free movement of goods, services and people, and a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion.

Implications for Canada

From 2012 to 2022, merchandise exports to Africa increased by approximately 43%, but still represent only 0.7% of Canada’s total in 2022. In 2021, known Canadian Direct Investment Abroad for Africa was $14.5 billion, while known Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Canada from Africa was $2.1 billion. Africa’s emerging and frontier markets, the anticipated growth in the continent’s economies and consumer markets, and the integrated, rules-based and transparent trade and investment environment that is expected to accompany implementation of the AfCFTA present opportunities to significantly increase these figures.

Canada’s Feminist Foreign Policy supports the advancement of human rights, gender equality, diversity and inclusion both as valuable goals in their own right and as essential conditions for durable peace and security, sustainable economic development, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, notably the Action Area on Growth that Works for Everyone, will continue to guide international assistance programming, offering synergies that support sustainable economic growth and help ensure that the benefits of trade are more widely shared.

Research and innovation are also key to building a deeper economic relationship between Canada and Africa. The proposed CA-ECS will strengthen efforts to forge new partnerships between Canadian and African institutions, technologies and businesses to address global challenges of the 21st century such as pandemics, climate change, and inequality.

More information on the Government’s consultations on a proposed Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy can be found on the Global Affairs Canada website: Consulting Canadians on a proposed economic cooperation strategy with Africa and A proposed Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Strategy: background for consultations.

All interested parties are invited to submit their views by July 31, 2023. Please be advised that any information received as a result of this consultation will be considered public information, unless explicitly specified otherwise.

Submissions should include the following information:

  1. The contributor’s name and address and, if applicable, the name of the contributor’s organization, institution or business. If private sector focused, additional details if applicable, on industry/sector of operation, business size and years of experience doing business in Africa;
  2. The specific issues addressed; and
  3. Where possible, precise information on the rationale for the positions taken, including any significant impact they might have on Canada’s domestic or international interests.

Sending submissions

Comments can be sent to

Canada-Africa Economic Cooperation Consultations
Global Affairs Canada
Pan African Affairs Bureau (WFD)
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0G2
Email: AfricaCooperationAfrique@international.gc.ca

Submissions by interested parties

The Government would appreciate receiving views from Canadians on the following topics:

Economic cooperation interests

Other topics of interest for the Government of Canada