Canada’s Sensitive Technology List Released

On February 6, 2025, Canada’s Minister of Public safety announced the release of Canada’s Sensitive Technology List (STL), which includes emerging technologies or technologies with novel applications that Canada regards as having national security implications and seeks to protect from unwanted transfer to foreign threat actors. The STL is intended to act like the United States’ Critical and Emerging Technologies List and will contribute to advancing technological competitiveness while bolstering Canada’s national security.

The STL was developed by Public Safety Canada with input from 22 federal departments and agencies, including the Office of the Chief Science Advisor, Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED); and the security, intelligence and national defence community. It outlines eleven broad technology areas deemed sensitive from a security, intelligence and national defence standpoint. Each category includes specific examples of the type of technologies that may fall within it. The categories of sensitive technology are:

1. Advanced Digital Infrastructure Technology
2. Advanced Energy Technology
3. Advanced Materials and Manufacturing
4. Advanced Sensing and Surveillance
5. Advanced Weapons
6. Aerospace, Space and Satellite Technology
7. Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Technology
8. Human-Machine Integration
9. Life Science Technology
10. Quantum Science and Technology
11. Robotics and Autonomous Systems

The STL can be used to guide foreign investment reviews, export controls, research security and assist with other efforts to promote Canadian innovation and the development of sensitive technologies. It is also intended to inform federal policies and programs, and assist the public and business community in making decisions about business, investment and research activities.

The STL can be found here.

Summary By: Victoria Di Felice