There are many areas of business in which the Canadian government plays a strong role though extensive regulation. The regulations can be extremely complex, and there are often separate administrative bodies that have particular expectations. Familiarity with these rules and conventions is vital to obtaining regulatory approval or maintaining regulatory compliance in Canada, which is often the first step to doing business in these industries here.

Advertising | MORE

The field of advertising is a highly regulated one. Advertising law involves ensuring compliance with both advertising standards set by the Canadian Advertising Standards Council (CASC) and, in the case of pharmaceutical products, the Pharmacy Advertising Advisory Board (PAAB), and ensuring that advertising and promotional materials do not infringe the intellectual property rights of third parties.

Food & Drug | MORE

All foods and drugs are heavily regulated in their sale, use, and production. The Food and Drug Act contains extensive and quite specific rules governing products, which can include where and how they are sold, and how they are labeled, and particular products will require government approval before sale.

Medical Devices | MORE

Medical devices are devices used for the treatment of humans, and are closely regulated in Canada. Depending on the invasiveness of the device, there may be a number of requirements on where and how the devices are made, and how they may be distributed and sold in Canada.

Natural Health Products | MORE

There is a subset of drugs in Canada referred to as Natural Health Products. Natural Health Products (NHPs) are typically sourced from naturally occurring products, and are available without a prescription. NHPs must be safe for consideration as over-the-counter products, be available for self-care and self-selection and not require a prescription to be sold.

Cosmetics | MORE

A “cosmetic” includes any substance or mixture of substances manufactured, sold or represented for use in cleansing, improving or altering the complexion, skin, hair or teeth, and include deodorants and perfume. Some cosmetic products are regulated as drugs if they have a therapeutic effect on your body, such as preventing or controlling disease. Deeth Williams Wall LLP can advise clients on cosmetics, and can help clients navigate the process from initial application through to approval and subsequent sale.