Highlights

  • The Canadian International Trade Tribunal is reviewing the impact of corrosion-resistant steel sheet products from several countries on the Canadian market.
  • A complaint by EBC Inc. about a government procurement process is under CITT inquiry.
  • The CITT has maintained its stance against the import of certain steel products from China.
  • The CRTC is engaged in various broadcasting-related consultations and decisions.
  • Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, assessments of certain substances have been conducted, with some identified as potentially harmful to human health.
  • The Privy Council Office is promoting diverse and merit-based appointments for government positions.
  • Credit Suisse AG is seeking to release its assets in Canada, with a deadline for objections.
  • KOHO Financial Inc. is proposing to establish a new bank, with a period for public objections.

Canadian Trade Tribunal Reviews on Steel Sheet Dumping and Construction Services Complaint; CRTC Consultations and Decisions Announced

The Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) is initiating an expiry review concerning the dumping of corrosion-resistant steel sheet products from China, Taiwan, India, and Korea. The review will assess whether the termination of the current finding would likely lead to the continuation or resumption of dumping and if this could harm the Canadian industry. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will first determine the likelihood of continued or resumed dumping, and the CITT will then assess potential injury to the domestic industry. Participants must file their notices by January 30, 2024, and the CBSA’s determination is due by June 13, 2024, with the CITT’s final decision by November 20, 2024. A public hearing is scheduled for September 9, 2024.

Additionally, the CITT has received a complaint from EBC Inc. regarding a procurement by the Department of Public Works and Government Services for construction management services. EBC alleges that the department breached obligations under trade agreements and the request for proposal by not considering information provided by EBC. The CITT has decided to conduct an inquiry into the complaint.

Furthermore, the CITT has continued its order concerning the dumping and subsidizing of steel piling pipe from China, following an expiry review.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has posted notices of consultation and decisions on its website. The notices include deadlines for filing interventions, comments, or replies, or hearing dates for proceedings in Vancouver, British Columbia, and the National Capital Region of Ontario and Quebec. Decisions involve broadcasting undertakings in Grande Prairie, Alberta, and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. [Source]

Canadian Environmental Protection Act Updates on Substance Assessments and Appointment Opportunities

The Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA) has assessed 55 substances in the Aluminium-containing Substances Group. The assessment concluded that two substances, aluminum hydroxychloride and aluminum chlorohydrate, may pose a risk to human health and should be added to Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Act. The remaining 53 substances were found not to pose a risk to the environment or human health. The public is invited to comment on these findings and the proposed risk management options within 60 days.

Additionally, an updated draft assessment of two substances, N-methylpyrrolidone (NMP) and N-ethylpyrrolidone (NEP), was published. NMP is proposed to be added to Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Act due to potential health risks, while no further action is proposed for NEP at this time. However, follow-up activities may be considered to track changes in NEP exposure.

Lastly, the final decision after the assessment of naphthenic acids and calcium naphthenates concluded that these substances do not meet any criteria that would classify them as harmful under CEPA. Therefore, no further action will be taken against these substances at this time.

The Privy Council Office also announced various appointment opportunities for Governor in Council positions, emphasizing a merit-based, transparent process that reflects Canada’s diversity. [Source]

Credit Suisse AG Asset Release and KOHO Financial Inc.’s Bank Establishment Plans in Canada

Credit Suisse AG, Toronto Branch, is planning to request authorization from the Superintendent of Financial Institutions to release its assets maintained in Canada. Depositors or creditors opposed to this release must file their opposition by March 6, 2024.

KOHO Financial Inc. intends to apply for the establishment of a Schedule I bank named “KOHO Bank” in English and “Banque KOHO” in French. The proposed bank will offer banking services including deposit and lending products to Canadian residents. Objections to this application can be submitted until April 18, 2024. The issuance of letters patent for the bank will depend on the review process and the Minister of Finance’s discretion. [Source]

Source