Public Safety Minister Marci Mendicino says Canada plans to temporarily ban the import of handguns without Parliament’s approval.

The move would be made by using a regulatory measure coming into effect in two weeks.

The change will be in place until a permanent freeze is passed in Parliament and has come into force.

In May, the government tabled gun control legislation that includes a national freeze on the importation, purchase, sale, and transfer of handguns. It has not been passed yet.

The temporary ban will prevent businesses from importing handguns into Canada with a few exceptions. The exceptions mirror those in the legislation tabled in May.

Foreign affairs minister, Mélanie Joly, says she has the authority to ban any import or export permit in Canada.

Government trade data shows Canada imported $26.4 million worth of pistols and revolvers between January and June. That is a 52 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.