BUILDING A STRONGER CANADA

A Unified Vision for a Barrier-Free One Canada Economy

The 47th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Society of Professional Accountants of Canada (RPA Canada) brought together professionals, policymakers, and educators at the Hilton Hotel Meadowvale in Mississauga. The discussion centered on strengthening Canada’s economic future through reduced barriers, professional mobility, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

“At a time of economic uncertainty and growing global trade challenges under U.S. tariffs, we must stand united to build a strong, barrier-free One Canada Economy, one that removes obstacles not only to trade but also to trades and professions.”
— Hon. Shafqat Ali, MP and Minister of the Treasury Board of Canada

As Canada’s oldest national accounting body, founded in 1978, RPA Canada continues to advocate for the SME sector long recognized as the backbone of the national economy. For nearly five decades, RPA Canada has ensured a clear, ethical, and affordable pathway for aspiring accountants while safeguarding public trust.

“RPA Canada upholds national standards of professional conduct, transparency, and integrity.”
— Zubair Choudhry, President & CEO, RPA Canada

Magazine Launch & QMS Manual

In celebration of Small Business Week, Minister Shafqat Ali joined President & CEO Zubair Choudhry to unveil the inaugural issue of the quarterly Professional Accountant Magazine, marking a major milestone for Canada’s accounting community.

“I congratulate RPA Canada for launching their quarterly magazine, which will provide valuable insights to accounting professionals as they strengthen our economy through the SME sector that creates jobs and pays taxes.”
— Hon. Shafqat Ali, MP

With evolving tax rules, emerging technologies, and increased demand for transparency, the magazine will serve as a national platform for knowledge-sharing and thought leadership.

“Professional Accountant Magazine will connect professionals and business leaders, contributing to the growth and strength of our economy.”
— Zubair Choudhry

RPA Canada also introduced its new Quality Management System (QMS) Manual, effective January 1, 2026, reinforcing the Society’s commitment to public protection and strengthening practice standards for Certified Accounting Practitioners.

National Policy Resolution

Clarity, Fairness, Accessibility & Public Protection

A key highlight of the AGM was the approval of a major national policy resolution advocating for clarity, fairness, and inclusivity across the accounting profession.

Key Issues Identified

• Encroachment and monopoly control by certain provincial CPA bodies
• Reduced affordability and access for SMEs
• Conflicts of interest between regulation and member advocacy
• Declining accounting enrollments
• Regulatory fragmentation across provinces

RPA Canada’s Position

• Serving taxpayers and SMEs with competence and integrity
• Maintaining national standards for non-public accounting practices
• Supporting both domestic and internationally trained professionals

Call to Action

RPA Canada urges governments to clearly define public accounting as audit and assurance services under provincial jurisdiction, while recognizing non-assurance services—management accounting, taxation, compilation, bookkeeping, and advisory—as suitable for national or federal oversight.