Canada’s functional foods and natural health product industry is growing exponentially year over year, and now is the time to reach new and exciting markets. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada report that there are more than 750 Canadian companies that specialize in this area with over $11 billion in revenue. [i]
The market is big, the demand is growing, but what do you need to do to get your product imported into Canada? Check out this step by step guide to import commercial goods into Canada[ii] to make sure you have everything covered.
Preparing to Import
- Obtain a Business Number
- Identify the goods you want to import
- Determine if you will use the services of a licensed customs broker
- Determine the country of origin for the goods you are importing
- Ensure the goods you wish to import are permitted in Canada
- Ensure the goods you wish to import are marked and labelled as required
- Determine whether the goods you intend to import are subject to any permits, restrictions or regulations by the Canadian Border Services Agency or other government departments
Classifying your goods
- Determine the 10-digit tariff classification number for each item you are importing
Determining duties & taxes
- Determine the applicable tariff treatment and rate of duty
- Determine if your goods are subject to the goods and services tax (GST), excise tax or excise duty
- Determine the value of the goods you are importing
- Estimate in advance how much duty & taxes you will be required to pay
Shipping, examining and reporting your goods
- Place your order and select a method of shipping
- Report your goods
Getting your goods released
- Obtain release of your goods
[i] http://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/industry-markets-and-trade/statistics-and-market-information/by-product-sector/functional-foods-and-natural-health-products/?id=1170856376710
[ii] www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/guide-eng.html
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