Canada's government plans to slash approval times for major projects to one year after facing criticism that its regulatory process moves too slowly. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon announced 30-day consultations on streamlining federal assessments and decision-making timelines for large-scale developments.

The proposals would ensure federal reviews take no more than 12 months once proponents submit all required information. Ottawa also wants to create a system requiring only single federal decision for major project approvals. These changes would apply to all federally reviewed projects, expanding beyond the current two-year policy for the Major Projects Office.

The accelerated timeline aims to attract investment and boost Canada's economic competitiveness. "Helping companies across the country build their projects faster," LeBlanc stated, the reforms aim to grow Canada's economy while addressing regulatory bottlenecks. The government simultaneously seeks input on diversifying Canadian trade channels.