Regulatory outlook 2026: Risks and opportunities of key regulatory changes

Finding value in emerging regulations and policies.

The ripple effects of global geopolitical pressures, technological transformation, and shifting economic priorities have altered the trajectory of policy and regulatory development in Canada.

Depending on how organizations position themselves—through supply chain strategy, workforce planning, technology transformation, geographic footprint, or wider business priorities—the resulting opportunities, compliance requirements, and risks vary significantly.

Regulatory changes may feel complex and onerous, but they can also spark innovation and new opportunities. The key is understanding how to leverage the regulatory and political environment, as well as the direction set by various levels of government, to generate real value for your organization.

Mike Abbott, Partner, Regulatory Leader

Our regulatory outlook hub helps leaders understand key developments in Canada’s policy and regulatory environment and interpret signals early to seize opportunities, not just manage compliance. We expect these developments to materially reshape Canada’s business landscape and require a coordinated, cross-functional response across the organization to align strategic priorities.

To make sense of where change is happening and where it’s headed, we group the regulatory landscape into three categories. Choose a category to gain clarity on regulatory change, align compliance efforts, and uncover new paths of opportunity:

Regulatory changes with known timelines

Explore confirmed regulatory changes with defined implementation dates, including the implications for impacted sectors and next steps.

Act with confidence

Regulatory changes under consideration

Track proposed and developing regulations under review, and understand where change may be headed.

Stay ahead

Regulatory changes emerging from policy choices

Identify policy signals and government priorities that may shape future regulatory requirements and market opportunities for your business.

Uncover opportunity

How organizations can position for success in a changing regulatory landscape

As regulatory risk, complexity, and policies evolve—along with the resulting downwind opportunities—organizations should look to multiple sources to be primed for change, from accounting and legal teams to external advisors and consultants. Each area of expertise brings a different perspective.

Relying on a single perspective creates blind spots, particularly when regulatory change can also be a source of competitive advantage. Broadening your perspectives ensures you’re evaluating regulatory shifts holistically, helping to identify where early action can generate real value, where gaps may exist in current capabilities, and where your organization may be missing opportunities to leverage these changes strategically.”

Mike Abbott, Partner, Regulatory Leader

Staying informed is the foundational step, but translating that awareness into action requires a structured approach to connect insights to decision-making.

Regulatory compliance services that deliver value

Momentum builds when we do more together, turning compliance into action and strategy into results. Our strength lies in seeing regulation and policy from two perspectives: compliance and value creation. We can help you meet regulatory requirements and build trust with stakeholders more effectively, but also leverage these changes to enhance your strategic positioning.

Connect with our team to assess your current state and plan next steps that enable you to turn compliance into a source of organizational advantage.