Canadian Competition Bureau's 2025-2026 Plan: A Shift Towards Proactive Enforcement

The Canadian Competition Bureau has unveiled its annual plan for 2025-2026, indicating a significant shift towards more aggressive enforcement in the face of rapid changes in trade, technology, and market dynamics. This strategic document, released in June 2025, emphasizes the Bureau's priorities amidst evolving economic landscapes and recent amendments to the Competition Act, which have empowered its enforcement capabilities.

The Bureau's approach builds upon its ongoing efforts to implement its Strategic Vision while responding to substantial amendments made to the Competition Act in 2022. According to Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell, the Bureau aims to leverage Canada's G7 presidency to enhance international cooperation in competition policy and enforcement. This year’s annual plan retains several priorities from the previous year while integrating new areas of focus that align with the recent federal government's agenda.

Among the key sectors highlighted in the Bureau's 2025-2026 priorities are housing, artificial intelligence, food, deceptive marketing, consumer data, algorithmic pricing, and private enforcement. Notably, the focus on housing marks a proactive stance against anti-competitive conduct and mergers affecting rental housing transactions, especially scrutinizing the activities of commercial landlords. The Bureau has already been active in this sector, indicating a commitment to ensure fair competition in a critical area of consumer interest.

The Bureau’s renewed emphasis on artificial intelligence reflects its recognition of the technology's growing impact on market dynamics. As part of this initiative, it plans to enhance its internal capabilities using AI tools while also investigating anti-competitive practices within the sector. Furthermore, in its continued efforts to promote consumer welfare, the Bureau will prioritize investigations into food pricing and deceptive marketing practices, including issues of greenwashing and drip pricing.

The Bureau has also committed to enhancing consumer rights in the realm of data privacy, promoting policies that empower consumers over their data, and examining the implications of algorithmic pricing on market competition. Following the amendments to the Competition Act, which expand private access to the Competition Tribunal, the Bureau intends to bolster private enforcement mechanisms by monitoring cases and updating guidance as necessary.

To address regulatory barriers and promote interprovincial trade, the Bureau will advocate for policies that enhance competition within Canada’s diverse markets. Additionally, the Bureau plans to initiate a new market study this year, although the specific industry focus has yet to be disclosed.

The overarching message of the Bureau’s 2025-2026 plan is clear: it is entering a new era of competition enforcement characterized by proactive measures and increased scrutiny. Companies operating in Canada must reassess their practices in light of recent changes to the Competition Act, especially regarding merger reviews, as the Bureau is well-equipped to enforce compliance vigorously. Businesses are encouraged to engage in early assessments of potential competition law risks associated with their operations, particularly in the sectors under the Bureau’s intensified scrutiny.

In conclusion, the Canadian Competition Bureau's annual plan for 2025-2026 signals a strong intention to act decisively against anti-competitive practices, reflecting broader economic trends and governmental priorities aimed at fostering a fairer market environment for consumers and businesses alike. The implications of this plan will reverberate through various industries, compelling companies to adapt to the evolving regulatory landscape and prioritize compliance in their operational strategies.