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Exporting Goods Regulations

There are numerous opportunities for Canadian companies in global markets. Often the exporting process can seem overwhelming, due to the amount of paperwork and the number of different rules and regulations that you need to consider. This document provides you with the guidance that you need to navigate this process and start selling your goods around the world.

Canadian Government Requirements and Processes

When exporting commercial goods from Canada, you will generally need to:

• Have a Business Number with an import-export account
• Determine the country of origin of the goods (are they produced in Canada or somewhere else) and potentially complete a Canadian certificate of origin
• Find out if the goods can be exported or if they are prohibited or restricted in any way
• Find out if you need an export permit
• Classify the goods according to the Harmonized System (HS codes) or the Canadian Tariff Classification Number
• Report your exports to Canada Border Services Agency
• Ship your goods, which could involve an inspection of your shipment by Canada Border Services Agency and could bring about penalties, if you do not comply with customs requirements

To find out how to obtain a BN and to learn about the exporting requirements of the Canadian government, you should consult these documents:

• Exporting Goods from Canada
  
  http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5081-eng.html
  If you are planning to export goods, this guide will help you understand your obligations under Canada's Customs Act and Reporting of Exported Goods Regulations.
• Checklist for Exporting Commercial Goods
  
  http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5054-eng.html
  This one-pager can serve as a reminder of the key steps involved in exporting your goods.
• Business Number (BN)
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1208/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Your Business Number is your single account number for dealing with the federal government regarding taxes, payroll, import/export and other activities.
• Exporting — a step-by-step guide
  
  http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/sme-pme/e-guide-eng.html
  Get a detailed overview of the process of exporting goods from Canada.

Importing Country Requirements

In addition to complying with Canadian government requirements, you will also need to know the requirements of the importing country. For example:

• What paperwork is required at the border?
• Do you need a certificate of origin?
• Are there any restrictions on your product?
• Are there any local labelling requirements that you need to comply with?

These information services are a good starting point for understanding and staying up-to-date on the requirements of importing countries:

• Canadian Trade Commissioner Service
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1504/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Get help selling your products or services to foreign markets.
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
  
  http://www.international.gc.ca/protocol-protocole/reps.aspx
  Find contact information and more on representatives from foreign countries and on international organizations currently accredited to Canada.
• Export Alert!
  
  https://alert.scc.ca/ExportAlert/Index?lang=en&
  Learn about proposed changes to regulations around the world before they become law. This service allows you to voice concerns about regulatory changes that may affect your export markets.
• TradeCert Online Export Documentation System
  
  http://www.tradecert.com/canada/
  Save time by getting Certificates of Origin for your exports online from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. There is a fee and you must register.
• NAFTA Cross Border Movement of Business Persons
  
  http://www.international.gc.ca/trade-agreements-accords-commerciaux/agr-acc/nafta-alena/cross.aspx?lang=en
  Learn about temporary entry into the United States and Mexico as a business person under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).