Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning ICT, cloud computing, digital infrastructure, social media platforms, digital privacy, AI, cybersecurity, blockchain, and Web3.

Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.

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Start Date: 2025-03-09
End Date: 2025-03-15

Top Headlines

Main Stories

Canada Begins Consultations on Global Data Privacy Certifications

On March 11, 2025, the Government of Canada initiated consultations to implement international data protection and privacy certifications, aiming to enhance trust in cross-border personal information flows. The Hon. François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, indicated feedback will shape the approach for the Global Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) Forum in Canada. These certifications promise to bolster privacy compliance and facilitate international trade.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Canadian Program for Cyber Security Certification Launches First Phase

On March 12, 2025, the Canadian government announced the first phase of the Canadian Program for Cyber Security Certification (CPCSC) aimed at safeguarding defence supply chains. Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, unveiled the new cyber security standard for companies handling sensitive government information. The initiative includes accreditation processes and self-assessment tools, ensuring businesses adapt to evolving security requirements.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

G7 Foreign Ministers Issue Maritime Security Declaration

Global Affairs Canada on March 14, 2025, published the G7 Foreign Ministers' Declaration on Maritime Security, emphasizing the importance of a secure maritime domain. The declaration highlights concerns over disruptions to maritime routes and calls for enhanced security of critical undersea infrastructure. It also addresses state actions that threaten international navigation freedoms, particularly in regions like the South China Sea.

Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca

Radiocommunication Act Exemption for Correctional Services Announced

Published on March 12, 2025, the Canada Gazette announced an exemption order under the Radiocommunication Act permitting the use of jammers in correctional facilities. This regulation is designed to enhance security by preventing illicit communications via cellular devices and drones. While businesses involved in jammer-related goods may face compliance costs, the financial benefits are expected to outweigh them.

Sources: Canada Gazette, Part II: www.gazette.gc.ca

Spectrum Licensing Framework Addendum Released

On March 15, 2025, the Canadian Gazette announced an addendum to the Non-Competitive Local Licensing Framework, incorporating spectrum in the 27.5-28.35 GHz band. This decision by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada expands previous frameworks and follows consultations undertaken in earlier notices. The document is accessible on ISED's website for review.

Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Important Updates

Secondary Stories

Software Development Industry Revenue Reports

StatsCan reported on March 10, 2025, that the software development and computer services industries reached $148 billion in operating revenue for 2023, marking an 8.4% increase, albeit slower than 2022's growth.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

Telecommunications Producer Price Indexes Updated

StatsCan released updated data on March 13, 2025, concerning Telecommunications services producer price indexes for the fourth quarter of 2024, available upon request.

Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca

MP Terry Beech's Tweet on Service Enhancements

On March 12, 2025, MP Terry Beech tweeted about improvements in government service delivery, emphasizing lower costs and shorter wait times.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

MP Mélanie Joly's Tweet on Canada-Japan Security Agreement

MP Mélanie Joly tweeted on March 13, 2025, regarding the Agreement in principle for the Canada-Japan Information Security Agreement, enhancing bilateral collaboration.

Sources: Social Media: x.com

N.L. Cybersecurity Concerns Highlighted by Expert

CBC reported on March 13, 2025, that cybersecurity threats in Newfoundland and Labrador are a cautionary signal for Canada, as noted by security expert David Shipley.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.cbc.ca

FCC Establishes National Security Council Amid Tech Rivalry

The Globe and Mail highlighted on March 13, 2025, the FCC's formation of a National Security Council in response to AI and quantum computing developments, framing them as a new front in US-China superpower dynamics.

Sources: Canadian News Outlet: www.theglobeandmail.com

Provincial Announcements

Quebec Invests Over $1.36 Million in JRV's Digital Transformation

On March 13, 2025, Quebec announced an investment of $1,361,898 to support JRV's digital transformation, enhancing supply chain efficiency for strategic sectors.

Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.quebec.ca

Public Officials' Social Media

What We're Reading This Week

• Cybersecurity Market Trends: Recent advancements and future outlook in cybersecurity.
• AI and Quantum Computing Dynamics: The formation of a US National Security Council addressing AI and quantum computing.
• Emerging Tech Disruption: Insights on technology poised to transform the computing industry.