The legislation also proposes measures involving strategic trade corridors and ports, federal permitting and trade digitalization. The government said the changes are intended to provide greater predictability for major infrastructure projects while maintaining environmental standards and consultation obligations related to Indigenous rights. 

CCA said the proposal is relevant to the CASE sector because coatings and related materials supply construction, manufacturing, transportation, defense, energy and infrastructure projects. The association has previously called for measures addressing domestic barriers to investment, productivity and competitiveness amid ongoing trade and tariff uncertainty. 

Dave Carey, president and CEO of CCA, said greater certainty around project development could affect investment throughout the industrial supply chain.

“Our members benefit when Canada builds, invests, innovates, and grows,” Carey said. 

CCA said implementation will be an important measure of the legislation’s effect, particularly whether the changes result in faster decisions, more efficient regulatory processes and increased investment. 

The proposal has also drawn opposition. The Canadian Labour Congress argues that proposed changes to the Canada Labour Code would give the federal government excessive authority to intervene in legal strikes. Environmental Defence Canada has criticized the proposed project-review changes, arguing they could weaken environmental oversight and Indigenous consultation. The federal government says the legislation is designed to accelerate reviews while maintaining environmental protections and respecting Indigenous rights.

Major infrastructure, manufacturing, transportation and construction projects are end markets for coatings and related CASE materials. Changes to Canadian project approvals and investment conditions can therefore affect demand, capital spending and supply-chain planning across the coatings industry.