The Government of Canada has tabled new regulations that would impose additional reporting requirements on businesses that import or manufacture firearms. Published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, these proposed amendments would require businesses to submit detailed technical information about each shipment or batch of firearms to the Canadian Firearms Program (CFP).

The new reporting requirements include:

• Submission of detailed characteristics for each firearm or group of firearms in a shipment, such as manufacturer, make, model, type, action, calibre, and barrel length.
• Documentation of the location of identifying markings on each firearm.
• Provision of evidence for certain firearms manufactured or designed before December 15, 2023.
• Retention of records for 20 years to demonstrate compliance.

These conditions would apply to licenses issued for manufacturing or importing firearms and would add significant administrative burdens for affected businesses.

While these regulations do not directly affect individual firearm owners, they impose additional bureaucracy on the businesses that support the hunting and shooting communities. CSAAA questions the effectiveness of these measures in enhancing public safety, particularly given the existing regulatory framework.

The proposed regulations are open for public consultation, and businesses are strongly encouraged to participate. Comments can be submitted through the Canada Gazette until February 10, 2025. This is an important opportunity for businesses to share their perspectives, outline operational impacts, and ensure their voices are heard in the regulatory process.

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The Canadian Sporting Arms and Ammunition Association will meet with the Firearm Policy team early in the New Year for a technical briefing and consultation on these regulations. Following this meeting, CSAAA will update members with any new insights and guidance.

Don’t miss the chance to provide your input on this proposal and contribute to a balanced regulatory approach. Visit the Canada Gazette to review the regulations in detail and submit your comments.