Regulating Air Purifiers and Vacuum Cleaners to Improve Public Health and Fair Competition.

The Proposal: A Step Towards Regulating Air Quality

The Central Committee on Prices of Goods and Services is set to discuss a proposal that could have a significant impact on the way we live and breathe. The proposal, which aims to regulate air purifiers and vacuum cleaners as controlled goods, is expected to be a major talking point on Friday.

What are Controlled Goods? Before we dive into the details of the proposal, it’s essential to understand what controlled goods are. Controlled goods are products that are subject to price controls, meaning that their prices are regulated by the government. This is typically done to prevent price gouging, ensure fair competition, and protect consumers. ### The Benefits of Regulating Air Purifiers and Vacuum Cleaners

So, why are air purifiers and vacuum cleaners being considered as controlled goods? The answer lies in their potential impact on air quality. These products are designed to remove pollutants and allergens from the air, making them a crucial tool in maintaining good indoor air quality. However, the prices of these products can be steep, making them inaccessible to many consumers.

The PM2.5 Crisis and Its Impact on Consumer Behavior

The PM2.5 crisis, which refers to the severe air pollution caused by particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, has had a profound impact on consumer behavior in the air purifier and vacuum cleaner markets. The crisis, which began in 2020, has led to a significant increase in demand for air purifiers and vacuum cleaners, as people seek to improve the air quality in their homes and workplaces.

The Rise of Air Purifiers

Air purifiers have seen a significant surge in demand, with sales increasing by over 50% in the past year alone. This is largely due to the growing awareness of the health risks associated with poor air quality, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. The PM2.5 crisis has highlighted the importance of indoor air quality, and consumers are now more willing to invest in air purifiers to protect their health.

The remaining six products are services, including a new service for the removal of hazardous waste.

Air Purifiers and Vacuum Cleaners: A Look at the Controlled Products List

Introduction

The Canadian government has taken steps to regulate the market for air purifiers and vacuum cleaners, introducing a controlled products list to address concerns over price fluctuations and shortages. This move aims to ensure that consumers have access to essential household items while maintaining a level of control over the market.

What are Controlled Products? Controlled products are goods and services that are subject to specific regulations and restrictions. In this case, the controlled products list includes air purifiers and vacuum cleaners, which are considered essential household items. The list is maintained by the Cabinet, which reviews and updates it regularly. #### The Controlled Products List

The Cabinet has approved 57 controlled products and services until June 2025. Of these, 51 are already established controlled goods, with five new items added in 2023.