A new private member's bill introduced in the House of Commons aims to end the practice of 'maple-washing' Canadian flags by requiring clear labels indicating where the flags are manufactured.
Bill targets misleading labeling
Conservative MP Doug Shipley, representing Barrie-Springwater-Oro-Medonte, tabled Bill C-218 on June 4, 2026. The proposed legislation seeks to amend the Textile Labelling Act and the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act to mandate country-of-origin labels on Canadian flags that meet specific size requirements—at least 20 cm in width and 30 cm in length.
'Canadians deserve to know where their flag comes from,' Shipley said. 'If it is made in Canada, that is something to be proud of—if it is not, Canadians still have a right to make an informed choice.'
Closing loopholes
The bill would prohibit retailers from selling Canadian flags without the required label. According to a press release from the Conservative Party of Canada, this measure would close loopholes that allow foreign-made flags to be sold without clear origin labeling, support Canadian manufacturing, and protect the integrity of Canada's national symbol.
Shipley emphasized that the legislation does not ban imports or impose tariffs. 'It ensures transparency,' he said. 'It is a practical measure that supports Canadian jobs and helps Canadians shop and display their national pride with confidence.'
The bill has been referred to committee for further study.
