New Campaign Highlights Threats to Traditional Chinese Medicines Under Proposed Cost Recovery Program

Ottawa, ON — Today, the Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) and the Chamber of Chinese Herbal Medicine of Canada launched a joint campaign to raise awareness about the harmful impact the Canadian Government’s proposed cost recovery measures and labelling laws will have on Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM). These measures, which aim to increase regulatory fees for natural health products (NHPs), which TCMs are a part of, threaten to significantly reduce the availability of TCM products in Canada while driving up the costs of these critical products – resulting in severe consequences for patient care and Canadians’ health.

Traditional Chinese Medicines, long recognized for their cultural significance and contribution to health and wellness, are already subject to strict regulations under Canada’s Natural Health Products Regulations. However, the proposed cost recovery program could push many TCM products off the market as small and medium-sized businesses struggle to bear the financial burden.

“Natural health products, including TCMs, are incredibly important to Canadians. If these laws proceed, it will restrict access to essential remedies and severely limit consumer choice,” said Aaron Skelton, President & CEO of CHFA. “This is not just a threat to businesses but also the preservation of an important cultural heritage in Canada.”

According to recent consumer research commissioned by CHFA, 82% of Canadian consumers use NHPs, including TCMs and value these products as part of their health and wellness. Many have already expressed concerns about price increases and reduced access to trusted remedies. These regulatory changes could disproportionately affect vulnerable communities and practitioners relying on TCM for holistic care.

The campaign calls on the Minister of Health to pause the proposed regulatory changes to NHPs and to engage meaningfully with stakeholders, including TCM practitioners, consumers, and businesses.

Canadians can show their support for TCMs by signing an e-petition or directly contacting their MPs to make their voices heard.

For more information, please visit saveoursupplements.ca.

About CHFA

The Canadian Health Food Association (CHFA) is Canada’s largest trade association dedicated to natural, organic and wellness products. As a national not-for-profit association, our members include manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, and importers committed to getting more healthy living products into the hands of more Canadians. Visit chfa.ca for more info.

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