By Paul Vieira
OTTAWA--Canada intends to amend existing legislation to give officials oversight on the development and use of space-launch sites in the country -- another policy move designed to reduce the country's reliance on the U.S.
Canada is the only country among the big Group of Seven economies that must rely on foreign countries to ensure its satellites get into space, the government said in a statement. Officials said the legislative changes would give Canada the sovereign capability to launch rockets for national defence and commercial purposes, and regulate and oversee space launch and re-entry activity from Canadian territory.
"In a more uncertain and competitive world, Canada cannot rely on others to secure access to space for our economy, our defence, and our future," said the statement, which cited the U.S.
Officials add establishing Canadian sovereign space-launch capabilities -- two are presently under development, both in Atlantic Canada -- could attract billions in investments and create jobs.
The government said that, based on estimates from accounting and consultancy firm Deloitte, Canada's space market is projected to reach about $30 billion by 2040.
Write to Paul Vieira at paul.vieira@wsj.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
April 21, 2026 12:34 ET (16:34 GMT)
Copyright (c) 2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
Comments