U.S. Identifies Canadian Plastics Regulations as Trade Barrier

Following the United States’ publication of the 2025 National Trade Estimates Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, the US has identified Canada’s Zero Plastic Waste Agenda– particularly the Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Regulations- as a technical trade barrier. The report states that while the US supports Canada’s decision to reduce plastic waste, they are concerned about the availability of viable alternatives. They particularly identify food packaging, worrying that compostable or recycled packaging will compromise food safety, therefore restricting US agricultural exports. Ultimately, the US emphasized they would continue to collaborate with Canada to find science-based solutions for sustainable plastic alternatives. RCC will continue to monitor developments related to both domestic and international plastics policies—especially following the upcoming Canadian federal election—and will keep members updated.