Access Alert | Canada’s Public Consultation on a Modern Regulatory Framework for Space

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) has launched a public consultation on various aspects of the Canadian national space regulatory framework. The Government of Canada is committed to reviewing its space strategy (Exploration, Imagination, Innovation: A New Space Strategy for Canada) and has invited stakeholders with an interest in space-related activities to voice their recommendations and concerns to help unlock the full potential of the Canadian space sector.

The CSA’s suggested questions are as follows:

• How do you view the current regulatory framework for space, and how does it affect your organisation?
• If the Government of Canada were to modify the regulatory framework for space, what should the goals of that framework be, and why?
• What issues or activities require a new or changed approach, and why?
• What does the Government need to know to ensure that a modern regulatory framework enables space companies to prosper in Canada?

The legal and regulatory regime in Canada has developed progressively over more than four decades, including legislation such as the Aeronautics Act, Radiocommunication Act, Remote Sensing Space Systems Act, Canadian Space Agency Act, and, indirectly, the Export and Import Permits Act, as well as international treaties. However, as costs for conducting space activities decrease, boosting the commercialisation and expansion of the domestic space industry, Canada may benefit from a more comprehensive legal regime.

The CSA accepts submissions from all Canadians, with the deadline being 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time) on 4 April 2023.

If you are interested in learning more about the CSA consultation, the Canadian space-related legal framework, and how it affects your company, or you require support with this issue, please contact Ivan Suarez at [email protected], Alvaro Ovejero at [email protected], or Ruvimbo Samanga at [email protected].