OTTAWA, ON, July 22, 2026 – The Canadian Animal Health Institute (CAHI) welcomes Health Canada’s announcement of the Ministerial Reliance Order for veterinary drugs, an important advancement in the modernization of Canada’s regulatory framework and a significant step toward improving timely access to innovative animal health products.
This achievement reflects years of collaboration between Health Canada, industry and stakeholders to advance a more agile, efficient and science-based regulatory system. By leveraging the work of trusted international regulators, the Reliance Order has the potential to reduce duplication, improve regulatory efficiency, and help ensure Canadian veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners have greater access to the animal health products they need.
“Last week’s announcement demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained collaboration between regulators and the animal health sector,” said Dr. Catherine Filejski, President and CEO of the Canadian Animal Health Institute. “We commend Health Canada for its leadership and willingness to work with stakeholders to advance regulatory modernization. By strengthening innovation, improving access to veterinary medicines and fostering a vibrant Canadian animal health industry, we can continue delivering on our commitment to Healthier Animals for a Healthier Canada.”
The Ministerial Reliance Order marks an important milestone in Canada’s regulatory modernization journey, but it is only the beginning. As implementation moves forward, it will be critical that the framework supports the full breadth of Canada’s animal health sector by encouraging innovation, strengthening domestic capacity, and ensuring a competitive pathway for Canadian-made and internationally sourced animal health products alike.
For more information, please contact:
Eleanor Hawthorn
Communications Manager
437-253-1667
