The Canadian government says it has completed negotiations with the United States on an agreement that would allow the use of American space launch technology, expertise and data for space launches in Canada.
OTTAWA, Ontario — The Canadian government said Friday that negotiations with the United States on an agreement that would allow the use of U.S. space technology, expertise and data for space launches in Canada have been completed.
The agreement, which has yet to be signed, will provide necessary legal and technical safeguards while ensuring the proper handling of sensitive technology, the government said in a press release.
“Canada’s vibrant and growing commercial space industry relies on its ability to collaborate across borders,” Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly said in a statement. “The conclusion of negotiations between Canada and the United States means we are one step closer to finalizing this agreement, which, when in effect, will position our country as a global leader in commercial space travel.”
Maritime Launch Services, the company developing Canada’s first commercial spaceport in northeastern Nova Scotia, called the agreement a significant step forward for the industry.
“We look forward to welcoming our U.S. customers to Nova Scotia in the coming months as we prepare for Canada’s first launch from Spaceport Nova Scotia in 2026,” said President and CEO Stephen Matier.
The federal government is modernizing the regulatory framework for commercial space launch activities as the industry continues to experience tremendous growth worldwide, the release said.
Ottawa has said it hopes to position Canada as a future leader in commercial space launches, saying the country has geographic advantages, including a vast, sparsely populated area and high-inclination runways.