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ARTICLE · 13 APRIL 2026

Buy Ontario Procurement Directive: Key Requirements For Public Sector Procurements

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Ontario's new Buy Ontario Procurement Directive consolidates existing procurement initiatives and introduces significant requirements for government and broader public sector entities, including municipalities, to prioritize Ontario-made and Canadian goods and services. The Directive establishes strategic categories for fleet vehicles and capital infrastructure, implements domestic supply chain planning methods, and restricts US business participation in public procurement.

CanadaGovernment, Public Sector
Thomas Yeo
Thomas Yeo
Ian T.D. Thomson
Ian T.D. Thomson
Josh Van Deurzen
Josh Van Deurzen
Huw Evans
Huw Evans
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In late March, Ontario released the Buy Ontario Procurement Directive (the Directive) under its recently enacted Buy Ontario Act (Public Sector Procurement), 2025 (the Act)1. The Directive consolidates existing procurement initiatives and outlines additional requirements that government and broader public sector (BPS) entities must adhere to when conducting new procurements. With the Directive now in force as of April 13, 2026, public sector entities and suppliers should review their procurement practices and supply chains as the new requirements may materially affect procurement planning, supplier eligibility, and bid evaluations.

What you need to know

  • Broad scope. This Directive applies to all ministries, government agencies, Ontario Power Generation (OPG), the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), as well as “designated broader public sector organizations” as defined under the Broader Public Sector Accountability Act (which includes hospitals, school boards,

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