Posts

April 3, 2025

  CBSA has finally updated the form used by importers to facilitate imports from Least Developed Countries (LDC).  The B255 form is required for LDCT customs clearance, but the version available online from CBSA has been outdated - and did not reflect changes to the LDCT rules of origin which came into effect January 1, 2025. We have been aware of this issue since mid-December 2024 and have brought this to the attention of CBSA and the Department of Finance …

March 10, 2025

  Across Canada, businesses are feeling the impact of market uncertainty. The Export Development Canada (EDC) Trade Impact Program will facilitate an additional $5 billion over two years in support for eligible companies across a range of products to help you navigate economic challenges. If you’re an eligible Canadian exporter, or a company that supplies exporters, here’s how we can help:  Export confidently: EDC trade credit insurance protects against losses in the event of non-payment from your foreign buyer. Manage currency fluctuations: We offer solutions …

Feb. 28, 2025

CBSA reminds importers to submit financial security before CARM transition measure ends in April From: Canada Border Services Agency The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) system has been operational since October 21, 2024. Since then, a new financial security model exists whereby all commercial importers must post their financial security in CARM to benefit from the Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program. They can no longer use the financial security posted by their customs brokers. The RPP …

Feb. 4, 2025

The Canadian Apparel Federation has set up a single page for ongoing updates on US tariff policies. The page focuses on US actions, Canadian responses, and US tariff policy toward other countries, particularly China. Although direct action against Canada has been postponed, there are still developing issues that affect Canadian companies. Tariff measures against China will impact the shipping patterns of many Canadian companies, especially those involved in e-commerce. Only Canadian Apparel Federation members can access this page. The page …

Jan. 23, 2025

  We begin this year as we ended 2024 with considerable confusion about US economic policy and the knock-on effect it will have in Canada.  At the same time, some of the issues that have been raised in the US election and  amplified in the lead-up to the inauguration are finally here. As some of these election platforms become government policy and priorities, some of the normal procedures take hold.  It remains uncertain what the US government will do regarding …

Nov. 20, 2024

  CAF will be presenting a webinar during the week of December 16, 2024 on the issue of US tariffs on imported goods in light of the US election and likely Congressional activity. We recognize that there will be no clarity until the new administration takes office, as different executive and legislative actions occur.  But, many Canadian companies are trying to protect themselves from any tariff surge. There are many different scenarios under which the US may impose new tariffs on …

Sept. 16, 2024

    The Canadian government is considering a change to its duty drawback policies to allow companies to donate surplus merchandise to charitable organizations within Canada and receive a refund on any duties paid on imported goods. This proposed change aims to reduce waste and provide much-needed support to Canadians in need. Currently, surplus goods may qualify for duty refunds if the merchandise is either exported or destroyed.  The rules are contained in CBSA D-Memo D7-2-3.  The rules in place …

Posted by Bob Kirke March 21, 2024

On March 19, 2024 new import requirements took effect that impact organic textile products shipped into the USA. The USDA published the Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE) final rule on January 19, 2023, which requires the use of electronic NOP Import Certificates for organic agricultural products imported into the U.S. The use of the NOP Import Certificate was mandatory as of March 19, 2024. Implementing the NOP Import Certificate involves close collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), organic certifiers, …

Posted by Bob Kirke March 15, 2024

The Canadian government has provided updated guidance on the Supply Chains Act (formerly known as Bill S-211). Some of the updates put in writing what was stated during the webinar held in January by Public Safety Canada, or otherwise provide clarification.  Canada’s Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act  (the Supply Chain Act), came into force on January 1, 2024. It requires certain companies to file reports on their supply chain activities (about measures taken to …

Posted by Bob Kirke March 15, 2024

When North American countries signed the successor to the NAFTA they included a provision for a mandatory review of the agreement six years after the agreement came into force.  The Canada-United States -Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)  must be renewed by July 1, 2026, and while that date is still two years away, CAF is beginning to prepare for this renewal process. (United States Trade Representative, Katherine Tai)   Recently, US officials have warned that there is potential for substantial amendments, underlining …