A new Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) national survey examines how Canada’s evolving Buy Canadian environment is affecting architecture, building product specification and procurement. Based on 72 responses from architectural and multidisciplinary organizations across Canada, the survey found that 78% of respondents source more than half of their specified products and materials domestically. However, gaps in the availability of Canadian products emerged as the leading barrier to increasing domestic sourcing. More than 90% rated RAIC advocacy for fair participation of Canadian architectural firms in federal procurement as very or extremely important. Firms affected by the 2025 tariff period reported responding by advising clients about cost implications, finding alternative suppliers and revising specifications. RAIC says the findings will inform its advocacy for modernized federal procurement, improved Canadian product and manufacturer information, and an evidence-informed approach that considers domestic sourcing alongside affordability, performance, sustainability, design quality and the practical realities of architectural practice.
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