Legal updates, regulatory guidance and practical perspectives for businesses operating in complex industries.
Can Foreign Natural Health Product Companies Sell to Canadians Without an NPN? Many foreign natural health product (NHP) companies are interested in entering the Canadian market but are discouraged by the regulatory burden associated with obtaining a Natural Product Number (NPN), obtaining a Natural Health Product Site Licence, and complying with Canada’s comprehensive Natural Health…
Licence Requirements to Import, Manufacture, Package or Store Natural Health Products in Canada Purpose and Scope of a Site Licence A Site Licence is a mandatory authorization from Health Canada, specifically the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD), for any facility involved in the handling of Natural Health Products (NHPs) within Canada. This licence…
Understanding the Regulatory Landscape: Food Versus Natural Health Product Foods Under the Food and Drugs Act and Food and Drug Regulations In Canada, conventional foods are primarily governed by the Food and Drugs Act and its associated Food and Drug Regulations. These regulations outline the standards for safety, labelling, and composition for products intended for consumption as part…
Understanding the Natural Product Number (NPN) Framework Definition and Purpose of a Natural Product Number (NPN) A Natural Product Number, or NPN, is a unique eight-digit identifier assigned by Health Canada. This number signifies that a natural health product (NHP) has successfully passed Health Canada’s pre-market assessment for safety, efficacy, and quality. Essentially, an NPN confirms…
What are Natural Health Products (NHPs) in Canada? In Canada, Natural Health Products, or NHPs, are a specific category of regulated goods that include items like vitamins, minerals, herbal remedies, homeopathic preparations, and other similar products. These are not just everyday items; they are treated as a subcategory of drugs under Canadian law. The primary…
The Importance of Accurate NHP Labelling Accurate labelling for Natural Health Products (NHPs) in Canada isn’t just about following rules; it’s a matter of public trust and safety. When consumers pick up an NHP, they need to know exactly what they’re getting and how to use it safely. This clarity is paramount for making informed…
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Timelines depend on the licence type, how complete the application is and the regulator’s current processing times. We prepare the application and supporting documents so the review runs smoothly, and we give you a realistic timeline at the start.
It depends on the services you provide. Money services businesses register with FINTRAC, and payment service providers performing retail payment activities register with the Bank of Canada under the RPAA. Some businesses need both; we review your model and tell you which apply.
In many cases, yes. A transfer is approved by the provincial regulator and depends on the licence conditions, the premises and the buyer’s eligibility. We handle the filings and coordinate with the other side of the deal.
It depends on the product, its claims and how it is sold. Some products are regulated as drugs or natural health products by Health Canada. We review the product and the sales model and explain what is permitted.
Yes. We advise clients across Canada on federal and provincial regulatory matters, and we coordinate with local counsel where a provincial rule requires it.
We always strive to offer our clients transparent, flexible and reasonable pricing and payment options. Where the scope of the engagement permits, we try to offer our clients innovative, fixed-fee pricing options instead of traditional hourly rates, and payment through EFT, Wire, E-transfer, and Credit/Debit Card.
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We advise clients across Ontario and throughout Canada on regulatory, licensing and compliance matters in cannabis, psychedelics and other regulated industries.
Cannabis retail, consumption and related licensing
Zoning, land use and local approvals
Compliance and enforcement matters
Health Canada, Canada-wide regulatory matters
CRA, excise, FINTRAC and related requirements
Psychedelics, hemp, wellness and emerging sectors
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Canada's Law Firm For Regulated Substances
