Exclusive use clauses: What the Competition Bureau’s new guidance means for commercial leases

By Monty Warsh, Marco Gammone and Lexi Benlolo ( April 16, 2026, 1:52 PM EDT) -- Amendments to the Competition Act came into force in December 2024 and have significantly changed how exclusive use clauses in commercial leases are treated in Canada. The changes broaden the Act’s reach so that even typical landlord‑tenant agreements may now be reviewed if any part of the agreement is aimed at limiting competition....