Update regarding Canada’s Sensitive Technology List

Canada’s Sensitive Technology List (STL) was released on February 6, 2025.

According to the government, sensitive technologies on this list are defined as “technologies (including intangible technology/know-how) that are emerging or have novel applications or capabilities, and those that can uplift adversarial advantage, the transfer of which could cause injury to Canada’s national security and defence through:

• Canadian or allied military degradation or enhancement of adversarial military capability (i.e. dual-use, or having both civilian/commercial and military uses); and
• Canadian or allied intelligence degradation or enhancement of adversarial intelligence capability.”

The STL includes the same 11 categories of technology that are found within the STRAC Policy – Sensitive Technology Research Areas (STRAs), albeit with more detail and examples within each category.

The STL does not supersede or replace the STRA, and the research community seeking federal funding should continue to use STRA in their consideration of the STRAC Policy.

The STL was created to inform Government of Canada policy across departments and agencies. It is adaptable to suit the needs of any program or policy.  As such, the list can be used by anyone to assist in risk assessment and informing decisions.

Please see ISED’s FAQ for more information on the STL and STRAC.

If you have any questions, please email ressec@mcmaster.ca.