Following Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Beijing, Canada agreed to expanded trade and investment measures with China. Key highlights include lower tariffs on canola and seafood, Chinese EV imports at 6.1% tariff, and joint investment in clean energy, technology, manufacturing, and agri-food, supporting exports, jobs, and stronger economic ties. A backgrounder has been made available.
The EU will implement new phytosanitary rules for oak and chestnut wood from regions affected by the two-lined chestnut borer, including Canada and the U.S., starting March–April 2026. The measures specify clear and processing and origin requirements for solid wood and wood chips to meet EU market entry standards.
Manufacturers, importers, and certain exporters of mercury-containing products must report 2025 activities by March 31, 2026, under Canada’s Products Containing Mercury Regulations. The 2025 amendments introduce revised exemptions, lower mercury limits, export reporting, and alignment with US EPA cycles. Reports must be submitted through ECCC’s SWIM system.
CBSA released its 2026 trade compliance priorities, focusing on supply-managed goods, surtaxes, taxes, and trade agreement compliance. Using CARM and other tools, the agency targets suspected or known non-compliance while adjusting priorities based on risk, revenue exposure, and verification outcomes throughout the year.
Canada will impose a 25% surtax on steel derivative products starting December 26, 2025. The list includes structural components, wires, fencing, chains, fasteners, springs, furniture, lighting, and prefabricated buildings. The CBSA confirmed the surtax applies to all goods under these tariff codes, even without steel, with exemptions and remission considered case by case.
Public Safety Canada opened the 2026 reporting cycle under the Supply Chains Act, set May 31, 2026, as the deadline, and released updated guidance clarifying requirements. A list of entities with published reports is available, with quarterly updates planned.
The CBSA confirmed dumping of carbon and alloy steel wire from 12 countries, with margins from 5.7% to 158.9%. Provisional duties have been applied since September 4, 2025, and will continue until the CITT issues its final injury decision by January 2, 2026
CBSA has extended its administrative review of certain Chinese mattresses under MAT 2025 UP2. The revised schedule updates deadlines for record closure, case arguments, and reply submissions. The review now concludes on February 24, 2026, affecting key exporters including Sinohome, Dormeo, and Sinomax.
Canada will require front-of-package nutrition symbols on most prepackaged foods high in saturated fat, sugars, or sodium starting January 1, 2026. The rules define nutrient thresholds, exemptions, and symbol presentation, helping manufacturers and importers ensure compliance and avoid border or in-market issues.
Canada has introduced measures to support its steel and lumber industries, including a 25% tariff on certain steel products, reduced freight rates, homebuilding initiatives, and financial aid. On December 12, 2025, steel TRQs under item 82 were updated. The Q3 period starts December 26, with permit applications accepted 15 days prior.
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