The Government of Quebec announced on Tuesday that it will reserve a portion of its public procurement calls for companies that are based in Quebec and elsewhere in Canada. The policy shift, disclosed in a statement released early on September 8, 2026, aims to give domestic businesses priority in selected contracts.
Under the new arrangement, certain tender processes will be limited to firms that can demonstrate a Quebec or Canadian headquarters. The change applies to a range of procurement categories, though the announcement did not specify which sectors or contract values will be affected. By narrowing eligibility, the province intends to channel public spending toward local suppliers and strengthen the domestic market.
The decision follows a broader review of the province’s procurement framework. Officials said the review identified opportunities to enhance the participation of home‑grown firms in government projects. The revised policy will be incorporated into the existing tendering system, with the expectation that it will take effect for upcoming calls that meet the defined criteria.
Stakeholders in the business community are expected to adapt to the new rules as the government rolls out the changes. Companies that meet the residency requirements will be positioned to compete for contracts that were previously open to a wider pool of international bidders. The government emphasized that the move does not close the market to foreign firms entirely, but rather reserves specific opportunities for domestic participants.
The announcement comes as part of Quebec’s ongoing efforts to support its economy and promote the growth of local enterprises. By allocating a portion of public spending to Quebec‑based and Canadian companies, the province hopes to foster job creation and retain more of the financial benefits associated with public projects within its borders.