Learn about the procurement dispute management and complaint processes
There are a number of dispute resolution bodies available to help you resolve your issues with a procurement. Learn more about the roles of each of the procurement bodies and when you can use them.
Note
In all cases, your first step must be to attempt to resolve the dispute through the contracting authority for your procurement.
On this page
- Contracting authority for the procurement
- Business Dispute Management Program
- Office of the Procurement Ombudsman
- Canadian International Trade Tribunal
- Competition Bureau
- Get more help with procurement
Contracting authority for the procurement
The contracting authority identified in the tender notice is responsible for the procurement and can explain the methods for addressing contract disputes in that department or agency.
The contact information for the contracting authority should appear on the front page of your contract document. Contact them to discuss your concern, or use the Government Electronic Directory Services (GEDS) to find the contracting authority’s supervisor.
When to use
This should always be your first step. Complaints can be raised during or at any point after the bid solicitation stage. If your dispute can not be resolved through the contracting authority, take a look at the other options below.
Business Dispute Management Program
The Business Dispute Management Program provides conflict prevention and alternative dispute resolution services to anyone experiencing difficulties with a contract where Public Works and Government Services Canada is the contracting authority. The program can help contractors, other government departments and Public Works and Government Services Canada employees.
When to use
Contact the Business Dispute Management Program in any of the following cases:
- are unsure of the next steps to take to address a contract dispute
- believe you would benefit from the help of a conflict management practitioner in preparing for a difficult conversation
- do not know who to contact for help to resolve an issue
- are seeking options other than litigation
Dispute resolution resources
Consult the dispute resolution resources to help you manage a conflict, prepare for a discussion and better understand alternative dispute resolution.
Office of the Procurement Ombudsman
The Office of the Procurement Ombudsman reviews:
- complaints regarding the award of a contract under $25,000 and services under $100,000
- complaints regarding the administration of a contract to which suppliers are party, regardless of dollar value
Note: The Office of the Procurement Ombudsman encourages suppliers to come forward with procurement issues that may be widespread and systemic in nature.
When to use
Contact the Office of the Procurement Ombudsman only:
- after attempting to resolve the dispute with the contracting authority directly
- and after the contract has been awarded
- and if the bid challenge is from a Canadian supplier
- and if the contract is for goods under $25,000 and services under $100,000
Complaints must be submitted to the Office of the Procurement Ombudsman within 30 working days from the time the supplier becomes aware of the issue.
Canadian International Trade Tribunal
The Canadian International Trade Tribunal reviews complaints concerning federal government procurement covered by trade agreements.
When to use
Contact the Canadian International Trade Tribunal only:
- after attempting to resolve the dispute with the contracting authority directly
- and if the procurement is covered by at least one trade agreement (listed in the tender notice)
- and if there is a perceived breach of a trade agreement obligation
Competition Bureau
The Competition Bureau is an independent law enforcement agency that ensures that Canadian businesses and consumers prosper in a competitive and innovative marketplace.
When to use
Contact the Competition Bureau only:
- after attempting to resolve the dispute with the contracting authority directly
- and if your complaint is concerning anti-competitive behaviour
Get more help with procurement
Call the national Infoline at 1-800-811-1148 to get quick help to sell to the Government of Canada.
Visit our contacts for procurement page to connect with the right people to provide you with answers to your questions, information about free seminars, and support for general procurement questions