Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, Adam, CHFA member and former director general of the NHPD, for joining me today.
I want to begin by saying thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today on the regulatory and legislative approach to natural health products by the Government of Canada.
I would also like to express my gratitude for the significant achievements of this committee. In 1998, your diligent work on the 53 recommendations led to the creation of a world-class regulatory system. Back then, the vision was clear: to ensure the safety, efficacy and accessibility of natural health products for all Canadians. The regulations that emerged from your dedication were seen as a model for the world—a shining example of how to strike the balance between consumer protection and industry growth.
However, it is with a heavy heart that I must emphasize this once world-class regulatory system is now facing substantial challenges. The very achievements that were celebrated in 1998, and then in 2004 when the regulations came into force, have become mired in inefficiencies, complexities and a lack of stakeholder engagement. The promises of a robust and responsive regulatory framework have given way to uncertainties, barriers and mounting concerns for businesses and the 71% of Canadians who rely on natural health products for their well-being.