Fall outlook: Federal stability, trade volatility, and emerging opportunities for construction
Parliament has returned for its fall session following a turbulent summer marked by continued Canada-U.S. trade tensions, the non-renewal of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, and the levy of 50 per cent tariffs and counter-tariffs.
For the construction industry, the coming months are likely to bring continued volatility and economic uncertainty. However, with the federal government having secured and maintained its majority, there is greater certainty around its legislative agenda. Below are some of the key policies and regulatory files the industry should be watching this fall.
Key federal developments
Two bills with implications for construction passed the House before the summer break: C-30, Spring Economic Update 2026 Implementation Act, and C-20, Build Canada Homes. Meanwhile, the C-35, Ban on Importing Goods Made with Forced Labour Act, was left on the table. This proposed legislation is expected to shift reporting requirements and supply chain tracking for construction companies. CCA will continue to monitor this legislation and provide updates when available.
Trade also remains front and centre. Canada’s counter-tariffs on U.S. goods came into effect on September 8, 2026, adding another layer of uncertainty for businesses managing costs and supply chains. CCA has compiled information for contractors on what the latest measures mean for the industry, including the specific tariff products at risk and resources available to support Canadian workers and businesses.
By securing all three by-election wins in Toronto, Vancouver, and Chicoutimi, the government has preserved the Liberal majority, which provides some certainty for its legislative agenda and serves as a public litmus test for renewed trade tensions with the U.S.
The government has also launched the ‘Small Business Procurement Program’ (SBPP) to increase the participation of small enterprises in federal procurement, thereby completing the Buy Canadian policy framework announced in December 2025. Nonetheless, the government continues to solicit direct feedback on future iterations under this policy suite, available at the link below.
Additionally, the government just wrapped up the inaugural Canada Investment Summit on September 14-15, 2026, unleashing nearly $500 billion of new investment into Canada, with billions expected to mobilize and spur construction activity that directly drives forward Canada’s economic growth.
With Parliament back in session, CCA will continue tracking these and other federal initiatives and report on any developments affecting construction.
What’s ahead for CCA this fall
CCA is gearing up for multiple advocacy and political events this fall, including our semi-annual Meech Lake meeting with senior government officials, our response to the federal budget, and our upcoming Hill Day on November 17.
For more on CCA’s advocacy work, please contact Laurie Frigon, Director of Public Affairs.