G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
25 September 2019  
(19-6198) Page: 1/60 
Committee on Import Licensing  Original: English  
 
 REPLIES TO QUESTIONN AIRE ON IMPORT LICEN SING PROCEDURES1 
NOTIFICATION UNDER A RTICLE 7.3 OF THE AG REEMENT  
ON IMPORT LICENSING PROCEDURES (2018)  
CANADA  
The following communication dated 24 September 2019 is being circulated at the request of the 
delegation of Canada.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
Introduction  
 
Import licences are administered by a limited number of government departments.  It is not 
practical, however, to provide a general descripti on of the procedures involved as they vary, in 
certain particulars, from department to department.  Consequently, replies to the Questionnaire 
have been organized according to the different legislative instruments under which import licences 
are maintained .  
 
Listed below is a summary of the changes from the replies to the questionnaire on import licensing 
procedures from Canada’s 2017 questionnaire  (G/LIC/N/3/CAN/17) : 
  
• Section 1 now contains information about the Cannabis Act in addition to the Controlled  
Drugs and Substances Act.  
• Section 7.2 now contains a new subsection: 7.2.10 Aluminium; additionally, subsection 7.2.9 
is has been rewritten . 
• New Section 10 Safe foods for Canadians Act replaces old Sections 10 Fish Inspection Act 
and 11 Canada Agricultura l Products Act.  
• Sections 7.2.1, 7.2.2 and 7.2.3 have been updated to reflect the Comprehensive and 
Progressive agreement for the Trans Pacific Partnership ( CPTPP ) agriculture T ariff Rate 
Quotas (TRQs) . 
• Sections 2, 4, 6, 7.1, 7.2.7, 8, 9 and 11 have all bee n revised and updated to lesser degrees.  
  
 
_______________  
 
  
                                                
1 See G/LIC/3, Annex, for the Questionnaire.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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1   CONTROLLED DRUGS  AND SUBSTANCES ACT AND THE CANNABIS ACT  ......................  3 
2   FOOD AND DRUGS A CT ................................ ................................ ...............................  7 
3   GROWER REQUESTED  OWN USE (GROU) PROG RAM ................................ .................  10 
4   EXPLOSIVES ACT  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 13 
5   NUCLEAR SAFETY A ND CONTROL ACT  ................................ ................................ ...... 14 
6   CANADIAN ENERGY REGULATOR ACT  ................................ ................................ ....... 17 
7   EXPORT AND IMPOR T PERMITS ACT  ................................ ................................ .........  19 
7.1   General Responses Applicable to Dairy Products; Chicken, Turkey and Eggs; Broiler  
Hatching Eggs and Chicks; Beef  and Veal; Margarine; Wheat, Barley and their products  ...........  20 
7.2   Other Responses – by Product Groups  ................................ ................................ .........  23 
7.2.1    Dairy Products  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 23 
7.2.2    Chicken, Turkey and Eggs  ................................ ................................ .......................  27 
7.2.3    Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks  ................................ ................................ .............  29 
7.2.4    Beef and Veal  ................................ ................................ ................................ ........  31 
7.2.5    Margarine  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  32 
7.2.6    Wheat, Barley and their Products  ................................ ................................ .............  34 
7.2.7    Textiles  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  35 
7.2.8    Clothing  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................  38 
7.2.9    Carbon and Specialty Steel  ................................ ................................ .....................  41 
7.2.10    Aluminum  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  45 
8   PLANT PROTECTION  ACT ................................ ................................ ..........................  47 
9   HEALTH OF ANIMAL S ACT  ................................ ................................ ........................  49 
10   SAFE FOOD FOR CANADIANS  ACT ................................ ................................ ...........  52 
11   WILD ANIMAL AND  PLANT PROTECTION AN D REGULATION OF  
INTERNATIONAL AND IN TERPROVINCIAL TRADE ACT ................................ ..................  55 
12   EXPORT AND IMPO RT OF ROUGH DIAMONDS  ACT ................................ ..................  57 
 
 
  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  1  CONTROLLED DRUGS AND  SUBSTANCES ACT AND THE CANNABIS ACT  
Outline of system  
1.  The importation of controlled substances, precursor chemicals, cannabis and industrial hemp is 
governed by  regulations made under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act  (CDSA), which was 
enacted in 1996 and came into force in 1997, and the Cannabis Act (CA), which came into force on 
17 October 2018.  The CDSA and CA are the means by which Canada fulfils its o bligations under the 
UN Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, the UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances, 
1971, and the UN Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 
1988.  
 
The CDSA and CA establish a legislative framework that prohibits any person from conducting 
activities, e.g., importation, exportation, production, distribution with controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis unless authorized by regulation.  The regulations made under t he 
CDSA and CA therefore set out the circumstances under which activities with controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis are permitted.  
 
The substances regulated under the CDSA are grouped into six Schedules (Schedules I to VI) to the 
Act.  S chedules I to V list controlled substances (including analgesics, stimulants, sedatives, 
hallucinogens and anabolic steroids) while Schedule VI lists precursor chemicals. Schedule V lists 
items which the Minister  of Health decides to control on a temporary  basis (up to one year with the 
possible extension for another year) in response to significant risk to public health and safety. 
Currently there is no item in this Schedule. Schedule IX lists the designated devices that are required 
to be registered with Health Canada before being imported into Canada.  
 
The following sections outline provisions pertaining to the legal import of controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis:  
 
"Controlled Substances"  
 
- Benzodiazepines and Other Targeted Substances  Regulations (targeted substances): Sets out 
the circumstances and requirements in which producers, distributors, importers, exporters, 
pharmacists, practitioners and hospitals may conduct regulated activities including 
possession, sale, distribution, impo rting and exporting, and production of substances listed in 
the Schedules to the Regulations. These Regulations also apply to benzodiazepines and other 
psychoactive substances defined as targeted substances under the regulations.  
 
- Narcotic Control Regula tions (narcotics):  Sets out the circumstances and requirements in 
which producers, distributors, importers, exporters, pharmacists, practitioners and hospitals 
may cond uct regulated activities including possession, sale, distribution, importing and 
export ing, and production of substances listed in the Schedule to these Regulations referred 
to as “narcotics”.  Examples of narcotics included in this group are cocaine, opium, codeine 
and morphine.  
 
-  Part G of the Food and Drug Regulations (controlled drugs) : Governs the activities of 
producers, distributors, importers, exporters, pharmacists, practitioners, and hospitals 
including possession, sale, distribution, importing, exporting, and production of substances 
listed in the Schedule to these Regulations an d referred to as “controlled drugs” such as 
stimulants, sedatives, and anabolic steroids.  
 
-   Part J of the Food and Drug Regulations (restricted drugs): Governs the activities of producers, 
distributors, importers, exporters, and research institutions including possession, sale, 
distribution, importing, exporting, and production of substances list ed in the Schedule to these 
Regulations and referred to as “restricted drugs” such as MDMA, LSD, and psilocybin.  
 
"Precursor Chemicals"  
 
-  Precursor Control Regulations: Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which 
producers, distributors, importe rs, exporters, pharmacists, practitioners, and hospitals may 
conduct regulated activities, including production, sale/provision, packaging, importation and G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  exportation of two broad classes of chemicals listed in Parts 1 and 2 of Schedule VI to the 
CDSA:  
 
-  Class A precursors: ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, piperidine, red/white phosphorus, etc.  
- Class B precursors: acetone, hydrochloric acid, toluene, etc.  
 
While these regulations govern the import of controlled substances and precursors, they may be 
referred to as two different “licensing/permit systems” – as procedures vary somewhat between the 
classes of substances – overall, the “systems” are very similar.  In this regard, unless otherwise 
specified in the text below, procedures are the same for ea ch type of substance.  
 
“Designated Devices Registry: Importation of Pill Presses and Encapsulators”  
 
Definition of Designated Devices.  
 
Pill press: Manual, semi -automatic or fully automatic device that may be used to compact or mould 
powdered, granular or semi-solid material to produce coherent solid tablets.  
 
Encapsulator: Manual, semi -automatic or fully automatic device that may be used to fill capsules 
with any powdered, granular, semi -solid or liquid material.  
 
Designated devices may be used for legitim ate purposes in the pharmaceutical, food and consumer 
products industries. As of 18 May 2017, any individual or business who wishes to import a designated 
device into Canada is required to register with Health Canada. Legitimate users are required to 
provide the registration number and proof/confirmation of the registration at the border upon 
importation of the designated device. Registration is not onerous; the burden on legitimate 
manufacturers is limited. Failure to register a designated device before im porting it across the 
Canadian border is in violation of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Subsequently, Customs 
officers may notify Health Canada and/or law enforcement when the device arrives at the border. 
Border officials, at their discretion, m ay verify registration with Health Canada.  
 
Health Canada aims to process completed application forms within 15 business days. Incomplete 
forms will be returned to the applicant and delay the registration process. Health Canada encourages 
applicants to ens ure that the application for registration is complete and submitted in good time.  
 
Each designated device must be registered using a separate application form and is valid for one 
importation. Once the registration has been processed by Health Canada, app licants will be provided 
with the registration number for the designated device specified on the form, and a copy of the 
validated registration form.  
 
“Cannabis”  
 
Cannabis Act: Prohibits the importation or exportation of cannabis and the possession of cann abis 
for the purpose of exporting it unless otherwise authorized under the CA.  
 
Cannabis Regulations: Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which cultivators, processors, 
sellers, producers, researchers, laboratories, distributors, importers, expo rters, pharmacists, 
practitioners and hospitals may conduct regulated activities with cannabis including possession, sale, 
distribution, importing and exporting, and production of substances listed in Schedule 1 of the 
Cannabis Act. Importing and exporting  is restricted to cannabis for medical and/or scientific 
purposes.  
 
Industrial Hemp Regulations: Sets out the circumstances and requirements in which cultivators, 
sellers, importers and exporters, may conduct regulated activities with industrial hemp (cann abis 
plants containing less than 0.3% THC) including possession, sale, importing and exporting, and 
production of hemp derivatives.    
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Prospective importers of controlled substances, precursor chemicals and cannabis must be 
authorized under respective regulations to conduct importation with specific substances. With the 
exception of Class  B precursor chemicals, an authorized importer must  apply for an import permit G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  for each individual shipment.  The application must specify the supplier's name, address and country, 
the quantity and type of substances being imported as well as the method of transport and the 
Customs port of entry.  Import p ermits are valid for one shipment only.  
 
3.  The system applies to controlled substances, precursor chemicals and cannabis from all countries. 
While there is no actual restriction on which countries these substances can be imported from, 
substances are rar ely imported from countries that are not party to the UN Drug Control 
Conventions.  However, not all substances that are controlled in Canada are controlled in other 
jurisdictions (e.g., analogues, salts or derivatives of certain controlled substances, ana bolic steroids, 
etc.).  
 
4. The import permit system is intended to ensure the legitimate trade in controlled substances, 
precursor chemicals and cannabis for medical or scientific purposes, and minimize the risk of those 
substances being diverted to illic it markets by monitoring internationally the movement of shipments 
of these substances, taking into consideration, among other things, annual national estimates for 
controlled substances submitted by Canada to the International Narcotics Control Board (INC B). The 
Canadian regulatory system is required to have an import control component to it under the UN 
Drug Control Conventions.  
 
5.  See paragraph 1.  
 
Procedures  
6. I. Allocations of quotas for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (considered “contro lled 
substances” in Canada) are published by the United Nations, and this information is provided 
to dealers upon request and is available on the INCB website.  Any nation exporting controlled 
substances may obtain information on Canadian quotas through th e INCB.  Canada does not 
allocate a specific quantity to any foreign country or domestic importer.  
 
II.  The qu otas for narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (“controlled substances”) are 
allocated annually in accordance with the requirements of the I NCB. 
 
III.  Permits to import controlled substances and Class A precursor chemicals are only issued to 
dealers who are licensed to import and conduct other activities with the relevant substances, 
while permits to import cannabis are only issued on a per -shipment basis to licence holders 
who are licensed to conduct activities with cannabis.  Licensed dealers are also required to 
inform the Office of Controlled Substances (Health Canada) when an import has taken place, 
including the quantity imported, while notification is provided by licence holders to the Office 
of Medical Access and Specialized Authorizations (Health Canada) for cannabis. Unused 
portions of permits for these substances and quantities from cancelled permits are credited 
back to the quota fo r the current year. The names of licensed importers are not published for 
confidentiality and security reasons.  The Office of Controlled Substances and the Office of 
Medical Access and Specialized Authorizations send three copies of the permit to the appl icant, 
and it is the applicant’s responsibility to send copies of import permits to the exporting country 
and the customs broker.  
 
IV.  All quotas are established on an annual basis, and an application amendment to this quota 
may be made at any time during  the year. Import permit applications are accepted 
year-round. Quotas submitted to the INCB are annual estimates of controlled substances for 
legitimate needs in Canada. When necessary, Canada may amend the estimates by submitting 
supplementary estimates t o the INCB.  
 
V.  Import permits are usually issued within thirty business days of receipt of the application.  
  
VI.  Import permits are issued for immediate importation except when a dealer has indicated a 
wish to import during the following calendar year.   In this case, the permit becomes valid 
January first of that year.  Currently, permits for controlled substances are valid for three 
months from the date of issue with none extending beyond 31st December of any given year, 
or until the expiry date of the  licence, whichever is earlier.  As of December 2019, these 
permits will be valid for a maximum of six months or until the expiry date of the licence, 
whichever is earlier. Permits for precursor chemicals are valid for a maximum of six months 
or until the expiry date of the licence, whichever is earlier.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  VII.  All applications for import permits are reviewed by the Office of Controlled Substances, with 
the exception of applications for cannabis, which are reviewed by the Office of Medical Access 
and Special ized Authorizations.  
 
VIII.  Import permits are issued on a first -come, first -serve basis, provided that the applicant 
submits a complete application. There is no maximum amount allocated per applicant.  
Applications are examined for accuracy on receipt. I n addition, applications made by forensic, 
coroner’s office and other law enforcement agencies for reference standards are processed as 
priorities.  
 
IX.  In accordance with the UN drug control conventions, a shipment of narcotic drug, psychotropic 
substances or precursor must be authorized by both the importing and exporting countries.  
 
X.   Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No.  
 
7.(a) Import permits are usually issued thirty business days upon receipt of a complete permit 
application.  
 
(b)  Impor t permits are usually issued within thirty business days upon receipt of a complete 
permit application.  
 
(c)  No. Currently, permits are valid for three months from the date of issue and none extend 
beyond 31 December of the year in which they were issued  for controlled substances. As of 
December 2019, these permits will be valid for a maximum of six months or until the expiry 
date of the licence, whichever is earlier. For precursor chemicals, permits are valid for six 
months or until the expiry date of th e licence, and may cover two calendar years. For cannabis, 
import permits are valid for six months or until the expiry date of the licence, and may cover 
two calendar years.      
 
(d)  All applications to import controlled substances and precursor chemical s are reviewed by the 
Office of Controlled Substances, with the exception of applications for cannabis, which are 
reviewed by the Office of Medical Access and Specialized Authorizations. Import permits are 
issued by these offices on the behalf of the Minis ter of Health.  
 
8.  Generally, an application for an import permit will be refused if the applicant does not hold a 
dealer’s licence for the substance that is to be imported or holds a dealer’s licence that will expire 
before the date of importation, or i f the application is for cannabis, the applicant does not hold a 
licence to conduct activities with cannabis or it will expire before the date of importation, if the 
applicant has provided false or misleading information in the application, or if there are  reasonable 
grounds to believe the importation would contravene the laws of the country of export or any country 
of transit/transhipment.  This information is clearly provided to the applicant. Yes, the applicant is 
given a right to appeal, as is outlined in the above Regulations.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for a permit  
9. For controlled substances, Class A precursor chemicals and cannabis, eligibility to apply for import 
permits is limited to individuals or companies licensed to import these subst ances in Canada.  While 
businesses that import Class B precursors must be registered with Health Canada, import permits 
are not required for individual shipments of those substances.  There is no fee attached to import 
permits, with the exception of import  permits for cannabis (see below).  However, a fee and other 
requirements may apply to obtain the licence to conduct regulated activities with controlled 
substances domestically.  There is no fee for a Class A precursor licence or a Class B precursor 
registration.  
 
For cannabis, individuals or companies who import cannabis through their cultivation, processing or 
medical sale licence must pay a fee of CAD$610 per import permit. Individuals who import cannabis 
through their research licence, analytical testi ng licence or cannabis drug licence are not required to 
pay a fee.  
 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  Documentation and other requirements for a permit application  
10. For controlled substances, Class A precursors and cannabis, applicants must provide in the 
import permit application form the name and quantity of substances, the address of the importer 
and exporter, mode of transport, port of entry and the name of transit/transhipment country. In 
addition, applicants for Class A precursor import permits must also provide th e proposed date of 
entry.  
 
11. Canadian import permits.  
 
12. There are fees to import cannabis. Individuals or companies who import cannabis through their 
cultivation, processing or sale licence must pay a fee of CAD$610 per import permit. Individuals who 
import cannabis through their research licence, analytica l testing licence or cannabis drug licence 
are not required to pay a fee.  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Currently, import permits for controlled substances are valid for maximum four months from the 
date of issuance with none extending beyond 31st December of any given year, or until the expiry 
date of the licence whichever is earlier. As of December 2019, these permits will be valid for a 
maximum of six months or until the expiry date of the licence, whichever is earlier. For precursor 
chemicals, i mport permits are valid for six months, or until the expiry date of the licence if the period 
is less than the six -month period and may also cross two calendar years. For cannabis, import 
permits are valid for six months or until the expiry date of the lic ence, and may cover two calendar 
years.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17.(a) Special conditions may be added on a case by case basis.  
 
(b)  Special conditions may be added on a case by case basis.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. No.  
 
2  FOOD AND DRUGS ACT  
Note:  The following relates to import licensing and administrative procedures for health products 
under the Food and Drugs Act  and its associated regulations.  Different health products, covered 
under the Act, are subject to different regulations as listed  below:  
 
-  Food and Drug Regulations;  
-  Blood Regulations;  
-  Medical Devices Regulations;  
-  Natural Health Products Regulations;  
-  Processing and Distribution of Semen for Assisted Conception Regulations;  
-  Safety of Cells, Tissues and Organs for Transplantation Regulations.  
 
Outline of system  
1. The importation into Canada of drugs, blood, natural health products and medical devices is 
subject to establishment or site licensing to ensure that imported substances meet Canadian 
standards of safety, efficacy and quality.  The import of these products is covered by the Food and 
Drug Regulations , the Blood Regulations , the Natural Health Products Regulations , and Medical 
Devices Regulations , respectively.  In addition to establishment or site licences p ermitting persons G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  to, among other things, import a health product, product licences or market authorizations are 
required for the sale of each specific health product in Canada.  
 
The importation of semen for assisted conception and cells, tissues and organ s (CTO) for 
transplantation are not subject to licensing, but imported products are expected to meet Canadian 
standards for safety and quality as expressed in the respective regulations.  Canadian CTO 
establishments are required to be registered with Healt h Canada.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. Establishment licences are required for "import for sale" of drugs (including pharmaceuticals, 
active pharmaceutical ingredients,  biologics, vaccines, blood products, and radiopharmeuticals), 
blood, and medical devices.  
 
Site licences are required for "import for sale" of natural health products (including vitamins and 
minerals; herbal remedies; homeopathic medicines; traditional med icines; probiotics; and other 
products like amino acids and essential fatty acids).  
 
Registration is required for all CTO (organs and minimally manipulated cells and tissues) 
establishments, except for retrieval and transplant establishments that are not c onsidered source 
establishments.  
 
3. The above systems apply to the specified health products from all countries.  
 
4. The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports; it is intended to ensure 
that imported health products meet Ca nadian standards of safety, quality, and efficacy.  Licensing 
is the most cost-effective  way to monitor importers.  
 
5. Licensing is a regulatory requirement under the Food and Drugs Act and its Regulations  as listed 
above.  
 
Product designation is not subj ect to administrative discretion.   
 
Legislative approval would be required to abolish the licensing/registration systems described above.  
 
Procedures  
6. Import of health products by licence holders is not restricted as to the quantity or value of the 
imports.  
 
7.(a) A licence or registration for the importer and/or product must have been obtained prior to 
importation.  No, licences cannot be obtained in a shorter time frame for products arriving at 
the port where the importer has not already obtained o ne. 
 
 Time to obtain a licence depends on a variety of factors and will depend on the individual case.  
 
(b) No, a licence cannot be granted immediately on request. Establishment licences, site licences, 
and product licences are issued if a review of the ap plication indicates that all requirements 
of the applicable regulations have been met. CTO registration is issued if a review of the 
application indicates that all the requirements of registration are met, including a statement 
that they are in compliance with the regulations.  
 
(c) No, licence applications and importation are not limited according to time of year.  
 
(d)  Health Canada is the only authority with respect to the above licences or registration.  
 
8. Failure to meet the criteria specified in the regulations will result in an application being refused.  
Reasons for refusal are given to the applicant.  There are regulatory requirements for Health Canada 
to provide the applicant with an opportunity to be heard.  Review of the decision is internal  to Health 
Canada.  Applicants have a final right of appeal through the federal court system.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any person, including a natural person or a legal entity meeting the legal definition of a person, 
is eligible t o apply for a licence or registration.  
 
Applicants that do not have a Canadian address must provide the address of a representative in 
Canada with the exception of medical devices where the applicant is not required to have a Canadian 
representative.  The re are fees associated with drugs and medical devices for both product and 
establishment licences. There is a published list of drug and medical device product licences and 
establishment licences. For CTO establishments, this information is made available upon request.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a permit to import  
10. Applications for product licences vary according to product but all the requirements are detailed 
in the applicable regulations and guidance.  Applications for  establishment and site licences and CTO 
registration must contain information on the applicant's name and address and contact information; 
the activities proposed; the product type; the address of each building where an activity will take 
place; and evide nce that they meet the applicable requirements of the regulations.  
 
11. No specific documents are required upon importation, just evidence that the applicable licences 
are in place. The Health Products and Food Branch of Health Canada and Regulatory Operat ions and 
Enforcement Branch can confirm that these have been issued.  
 
12. There are no fees for semen, blood, CTO, or NHP, as these are not cost recovered. There are 
fees for drug and medical device product and establishment licences; these fees are publis hed in the 
Fees in Respect of Drugs and Medical Devices Regulations and depend on the type of licence 
involved.  
 
13. Where fees apply a deposit or advance payment is required for the issuance of a licence.  Again 
this amount varies as per the licence and i s published in the regulations.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Establishment licences are subject to annual renewal prior to 1st April each year; CTO registration 
is subject to renewal in the year following the year in which the registration is issued; and drug and 
medical device product licences require annual notification.  NHP site licences must be renewed 
annually for the first  3 years, every other year for the next 6 years, and every third year after that; 
product licences are for an indefinite period.  
 
The validity period cannot be extended.  
 
15.  No penalty is imposed for non -utilization of a licence or registration.  
 
16. Lic ences are issued to a specific person. To change the name of the licence holder a new licence 
application is required.  
 
17.  An establishment licence may be subject to terms and conditions as specified by the Minister 
on the licence when the licence is iss ued. These conditions vary according to the licence. For drug 
establishment licences, terms and conditions can be added or modified at any time.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  3  GROWER REQUESTED OWN  USE (GROU) PROGRAM  
Outline of  System  
1. The Grower Requested Own Use (GROU) program allows growers to import the foreign version of 
a Canadian registered agricultural pesticide product, once approved for the Program by Health 
Canada.  
 
The Grower Requested Own Use (GROU) program is ad ministered by Health Canada's Pest 
Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) and allows Canadian growers to import and use (by way of 
an import certificate) foreign versions of Canadian registered products (pesticides). Before products 
are accepted in the GROU p rogram (by way of an equivalency certificate), they are evaluated by 
scientists to identify if any chemical differences may lead to increased health or environmental risks.  
 
Purpose and Coverage of Licensing:  
2. The GROU program is the only system in place  and is related only to pest control products 
(pesticides).  
 
3. Generally, pesticides which are registered in Organisation for Economic Co -operation and 
Development (OECD) countries.  
 
4. Yes, the import certificate (licensing) is intended to restrict the quantity of pesticides imported.  
 
5. Pest Control Products Regulations (PCPR), SOR/2006 -124, PEST CONTROL PRODUCTS ACT 
(http://laws -lois.justice.gc.ca/en g/regulations/SOR -2006-124/FullText.html ). 
 
(a) Yes the import certificate is statutorily required.  
(b) All requests to the program must be considered and there is no administrative discretion.  
(c) Legislative approval is required to abolish the program.  
 
Procedures:  
6. I.  There are no specific quotas, as individual import certificates are based on the size of the area 
where the pesticide will be used and the particular crop.  Each import certificate is individually 
approved. The requirements embedded with  the regulations and user friendly instruction are 
posted on the web:  https://www.canada.ca/en/health -canada/services/consumer -product -
safety/pesticides -pest-management/growers -commercial -users/importing -pest-control -
products/grower -requested -own-use-program/importing.html . 
   
The list of el igible products is also on the website.  There are no exceptions allowed within the 
program.  
 
II. Import certificates and the corresponding quantity of the foreign product approved for an 
intended use is valid for not more than one year (one growing season ) and one importation. 
Growers (importers) are required to apply for a new import certificate for additional 
importations within the same or subsequent years.  
 
III. The approval process has two steps:  A) Equivalency certificates are issued for a foreign 
product which is deemed to be equivalent to a Canadian registered product.  B) Individual 
import certificates are submitted by Canadian growers for approval to import and use an 
approved product on their land, for a specific crop, according to label directi ons.  The amount 
of product approved for importation is for use within one year or the growing season.  The 
process is transparent as per the section 43 of the PCPR.  
 
IV. There are no quotas.  Not applicable to the GROU Program.   
 
V. There are no published service standards for the length of time required to process an 
application.  An application to import a product is entertained as long as the specific product 
is considered equivalent.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  VI. There are no published service standards as to the leng th of time between the granting of 
licences and the date of opening of the period of importation. The approval to import is granted 
for one year or the growing season.  Growing seasons can vary depending on the crop, where 
it is grown in Canada and how it is grown.  For example, tomatoes grown in a greenhouse 
have a longer season than tomatoes grown in a field.    
 
VII. Health Canada administers the entire GROU program.  Additional importation requirements 
and documentation may be required by the CBSA (consistent with any importation).  
 
VIII. Health Canada only provides the authority to import and use an unregistered product.  There 
is no allocation process.  The grower seeking the authorization is responsible to find, purchase 
and import the product.  Applications are examined on receipt on a first come, first served 
basis.  
 
IX. Not applicable.  
 
X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI. Yes, there are conditions stated on the import certificate and through the PCPR.  The use of 
the product is only for the specified use,  crop and location and cannot be transferred nor sold.  
 
7. No quantitative limit applies since there are limits placed on importations.  
 
8. If an applicant does not meet the requirements as set out in the PCPR, an application is refused.  
There is no appea l process.   
 
Eligibility of Importers to Apply for Licence:  
9. A person as defined in section 2 of the Criminal Code may apply for an import certificate.  
 
Documentational and Other Requirements for Application for Licence:  
10. The web page to obtain the a pplication form for a certificate is attached: https://sec2.hc -
sc.gc.ca/pmra6200 -eng.php . 
 
The application must include all of the following information:  
 
(a) the person’s name, addres s and signature;  
(b) the name of the foreign product;  
(c) the number of the applicable certificate of equivalency;  
(d) a description of the intended use of the foreign product and the location where it will be used; 
and 
(e) quantity of the foreign product required for that intended use for one growing season.  
 
11. At a Canadian Point of Entry, all containers must have both the GROU approved container label 
and, if available, the Directions for Use Booklet attached. Permanently affix the GROU approve d 
container label to each container in such a way that the United States (U.S.) use directions are 
covered but the product name, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) registration number, 
establishment number and net contents are not covered. This w ill avoid confusion between the 
Canadian and U.S. use directions. The importer's name, address and telephone number, GROU 
Import Certificate number, metric net contents, signature and date of signature must also be 
included.  
 
The properly labelled containe rs of foreign product must be brought to the queue for commercial 
traffic and presented to the Customs Border Services Officer with the original approved GROU Import 
Certificate. Photocopies will not be accepted.  Customs authorities may also ask for the o riginal bill 
of sale corresponding to the GROU Import Certificate.  
 
Slightly different information is required if a small group of growers are working together with a 
designated agent or are hiring a customs broker or carrier.  
 
12. There is no charge to th e applicant by Health Canada to process an application.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 12 - 
 
  13. Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of Licensing:  
14. An import certificate (foreign product use certificate) is valid for only one importation and for 
the period specified in the certificate, which must not exceed one calendar year. It ceases to be valid 
if the applicable certificate of equivalency ceases to be valid. See section 41 (4) of the PCPR.  
 
15. There is no penalty for non -utilization of a licence or portion of a licence.  The authorization 
expires. 
 
16. Certificates are not transferable.  
 
17.  
(a) There are no conditions for products subject to a quantitative restriction in the issuance of a 
certificate.  
(b) The restrictions in place are outlined in Section 42 of the Pest Control Product Regulati ons: 
Importation of foreign product  
• 42 (1) A person may import a foreign product whose use is authorized if all of the following 
conditions are met:  
o (a) the person holds a foreign product use certificate in respect of that product;  
o (b) that certificate holder purchases the product directly from the foreign source 
without the intervention of an agent or mandatary;  
o (c) before the importation, the certificate holder provides the Minister with all of the 
following information:  
▪ (i)  the proposed d ate of the importation,  
▪ (ii)  the name of the person who will transport the foreign product into 
Canada, and  
▪ (iii)  the name of the entry point;  
o (d) the certificate holder  
▪ (i)  affixes to each container of the foreign product, as soon as 
practicable after the importation of the product but in any case 
before its use, a copy of the approved foreign product use label in a 
way that the product identifier that relates to its registration outside 
Canada remains visible at all times, and  
▪ (ii)  ensures that a copy  of any brochure or leaflet that sets out the 
directions for use accompanies the product; and  
o (e) The quantity of the product imported does not exceed the amount set out in the 
foreign product use certificate.  
• Marginal  notes:  
 
Pooled purchases  
(2) Two or m ore persons may together import in one shipment their authorized quantities 
of foreign products set out in their respective foreign product use certificates if the 
importation meets the conditions of subsection (1).  
Transport  
(3) The person who transports the foreign product into Canada must carry it to the location 
of use specified in the foreign product use certificate and have the following documents in 
their possession:  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 13 - 
 
  o (a) proof of purchase in respect of each quantity of foreign product in the shipment, 
including the name of the foreign source from whom it was purchased; and  
o (b) copies of relevant foreign product use certificates.  
 
Other Procedural Requirements  
18. No other administrative procedures are in place.  
 
19. Not applicable since Health  Canada has sole authority to grant importation and use.  
 
4  EXPLOSIVES ACT  
Outline of system  
1.  The importation of explosives is governed by the Explosives Act and Regulations , which is 
administered by the Department of Natural Resources.  The legal defini tion of explosives includes 
blasting explosives, detonators, propellants, sporting and industrial cartridges, and all types of 
fireworks and pyro technic devices.  Before an explosive may be imported into Canada or 
manufactured in Canada it must be declare d an authorized explosive by the Chief Inspector of 
Explosives appointed under the Explosives Act .  The process of authorizing an explosive consists of 
the manufacturer submitting data on the nature and composition of the explosive and on its 
packaging and  markings. Such an application is subject to a minimum user fee of CA D$128. Samples 
are usually required for laboratory examination. Testing fees depend on the type of tests to be 
carried out and the number of samples to be examined. This can vary, for exa mple, from CA D$2108 
for one fireworks sample and up to CA D$16881 for ten fireworks samples.  The criteria for 
authorization are based on the safety characteristics of the explosive substances or articles during 
handling, storage, transport and use. The obj ective of the authorization process is to confirm that 
characteristics meet declared values and relevant standards. Authorization also confirms that the 
product classification is in conformity with the recom mendations of the Committee of Experts on the 
Transport of Dangerous Goods as adopted by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the 
United Nations.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2.  Once an explosive is authorized, any person may import it into Canada provided he has the 
proper storage facilit ies for the type and quantity of explosives in question. Two kinds of importation 
permits are issued; a single use permit issued for a specific quantity in one shipment, and an annual 
permit issued for unlimited shipments of authorized explosives during a twelve -month period.   
 
3.  The system applies to explosives from all countries.  
 
4. The system is intended only to ensure that the same degree of safety exists with imported 
explosives as with those of domestic manufacture.  There is no intent whatsoever to restrict the 
quantity or value of the explosives imported.  
 
5. The Explosives Act , R.S., c.E -17 as amended, and the Explosives Regulations , 2013 
(SOR/2013 -211). The system is a statutory requirement which does not convey any administrative 
discretion an d would require legislative approval to be abolished.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable.  
 
7. (a)  The import permit is issued within thirty days after receipt of the application if the explosive 
has been previously authorized and facilities exist in Canada for the safe and secure storage 
of the quantity being imported.  Permits may be obtained in a shorter time but nevertheless 
should be on hand when a shipment arrives at Customs to prevent dangerous accumulations.  
Naturally, delays will occur if the  explosive has not been authorized previously.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 14 - 
 
  (b)  Permits may be granted immediately on request, for import of significant priority, provided all 
is in order.  
 
(c)  There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which an application for an  
importation permit may be made.  
 
(d)  The importer need only approach the Explosives Regulatory Division of the Department of 
Natural Resources.  No other administrative bodies are involved.  
 
8. An application for an explosives importation permit may only  be refused for failure to meet safety 
or security criteria.  Reasons for such refusal would be given to the applicant who would have the 
right of appeal to the Minister of Natural Resources under Section  17 of the Explosives Act.  
 
Eligibility of importers  to apply for licence  
9. Any importer who has satisfied the requirements of the Explosives Regulations  relative to the 
storage, sale, purchase and possession, and of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations  
relative to transport, of the explosive to be imported may apply for an importation permit.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The latest application form and guidelines are located on Natural Resources Canada’s webpage: 
http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/explosives/importation/9913 .    
 
11. The latest import process is described in Canada Border Services Agency’s D19 -6-1 
memorandum that can be found at: http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d19/d19 -6-1-
eng.html .  
 
12. The present fee is CA D$164.00 fo r a single use Importation Permit and a minimum of 
CAD$164.00 for an Annual Importation Permit with a maximum fee of CA D$1,324.  
 
13.  Other than the fee, there is no deposit or advance payment associated with the issuance of an 
importation permit.  
 
Conditi ons of licensing  
14. Explosives Importation Permits can be issued for a period of 12 months.  Single use importation 
Permits are valid for one shipment while Annual Importation Permits are valid for any number of 
shipments.  
 
15.  There is no penalty for the non -utilization of an explosives importation permit.  
 
16. Permits are not transferable between importers and only the products made by the 
manufacturer(s) specified in the permit may be imported.  
 
17.  There are no conditions attached to the issuance o f an explosives importation permit relative to 
quantitative restrictions other than safe and secure storage location in Canada.  Depending on the 
quantity to be stored, a magazine (i.e. storage) licence issued by the Explosives Regulations  Division 
may be required.  Importation permit applicants will be advised if this is the case.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. Persons not resident in Canada or not having a chief place of business in Canada might be 
required to post a bond before being permitted to import explosives ( Explosives Act  Section  9(3)).  
 
5  NUCLEAR SAFETY AND C ONTROL ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The  Nuclear Safety and Control Act  (S.C., 1997, c.9) came into force 31 May 2000. The legislation 
established a national nuclear regulatory authority, the  Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission 
(CNSC), for the purpose of administering the Act. The CNSC has established a comprehensive G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 15 - 
 
  regulatory control system for the import, export, transfer, possession and use of nuclear substances, 
prescribed equipment and pr escribed information (technology). Under this system, any person 
proposing to conduct these activities in Canada must do so only in accordance with a licence, subject 
to the regulations under the Act. Licence application requirements are specified in regul ations, in 
general in the  General Nuclear Safety and Control Regulations  (SOR/2000 -202). The Commission 
may not issue a licence unless it is satisfied that the applicant is qualified to conduct the activity to 
be authorized, and that the applicant will mak e adequate provision for the protection of the 
environment, the health and safety of persons, and the maintenance of national security and 
measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.  
 
Any person wishing to import a nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or prescribed information 
must obtain an import licence from the CNSC. Authority to import certain nuclear substances may 
be included in a licence to possess and use that nuclear substance, under general licensing 
provisions. However, import of controlled nuclear substances as defined in the  Nuclear 
Non-proliferation Import and Export Control Regulations  (NNIECR) (SOR/2000 -210) requires an 
import licence issued pursuant to those regulations. All controlled nuclear sub stances are prescribed 
as nuclear substances with respect to the import and export of those substances. Similarly, licensing 
authorization is required to import controlled nuclear equipment and information under the NNIECR. 
The Nuclear Safety and Control A ct (NSCA) and its regulations are available through the CNSC 
website ( http://www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca ). 
 
Purpose and c overage of licensing  
2. The purpose of the NSCA is two -fold: (i) to provide for the limitation of risks to national security, 
the health and safety of persons and the environment that are associated with the development, 
production and use of nuclear energy and the production, possession and use of nuclear substances, 
prescribed equipment and prescribed information; and (ii) to provide for the implementation in 
Canada of measures to which Canada has agreed regarding international control of the  development, 
production and use of nuclear energy, including the non -proliferation of nuclear weapons and nuclear 
explosive devices. Nuclear substances are defined in the NSCA (section 2), and include uranium, 
thorium, plutonium, deuterium and their respe ctive derivatives and compounds, radioactive 
nuclides, and substances that are prescribed by regulation as being capable of releasing nuclear 
energy or as being required for the production or use of nuclear energy. Additionally, the NNIECR 
define controlle d nuclear substances, controlled nuclear equipment and controlled nuclear 
information that are subject to specific import and export licensing controls, and list these in the 
Schedule to the regulations. These items are controlled for the purpose of assuri ng that the 
Government of Canada meets international obligations to which it has agreed regarding the 
non-proliferation of nuclear weapons; they are based primarily on international guidelines and 
control lists. There are some exemptions from licensing req uirement and these are identified in the 
NNIECR (section 4).  
 
3. This licensing system applies to nuclear substances, prescribed equipment and prescribed 
information imported from any country.  
 
4. The licensing of imports is intended to ensure that the nuc lear substances, prescribed equipment 
and prescribed information are transferred only to persons authorized to use them safely and 
securely, pursuant to the provisions of the NSCA and its regulations. Licensing also enables the 
CNSC to take actions to assu re that any applicable international, bilateral or multilateral obligations 
that Canada has entered into are met, including those related to nuclear non -proliferation  
 
Import licences may specify the maximum allowable quantity of nuclear substances, prescr ibed 
equipment and prescribed information authorized for import. The purpose of the regulatory controls 
on imports is to assure that the imported items are possessed only by qualified and authorized 
persons pursuant to the NSCA, and to assure compliance wi th international obligations; licensing is 
not intended to otherwise restrict the quantity or value of imports.  
 
5. The licensing of imports is a requirement of section 26 of the NSCA. Licensing procedures and 
licensing application requirements are prescri bed by regulation. The Commission has established 
classes of licences authorizing the licensee to carry out any activity described in section 26 of the 
NSCA; this includes Import Licences. CNSC staff conducts risk -informed assessments of licence 
applicatio ns and supporting information, and makes recommendations to the Commission for 
decision on issuance of licences. A licence may contain any term or condition that the Commission G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 16 - 
 
  considers necessary for the purposes of the NSCA. The Commission has the power to delegate 
responsibilities to Designated Officers for issuance of licences in certain circumstances, pursuant to 
section 37 of the NSCA, and has done this for import and export licensing decisions.  
 
6. Not applicable. Quantity and value restrictions, beyond the terms and conditions contained in the 
individual import licence, do not apply to imports of nuclear substances, prescribed equipment and 
prescribed information, except as may from time to time be determined by Government policy.  
 
7. (a)-(b) An import licence is normally issued within 3 weeks of receipt of the application but can 
be issued in a shorter time if warranted. A licence cannot be granted immediately upon 
request; a risk -informed assessment of an application submitted in co mpliance with the 
regulations is required prior to a licensing decision.  
 
(c)  No; there are no limitations as to the period of year in which applications may be made.  
 
(d)  The CNSC is the only body authorized to issue an import licence pursuant to the NS CA. 
Applications are made directly to the Commission. The Commission has delegated the 
authority for making the licensing decision on imports to a Designated Officer, pursuant to 
section 37 of the NSCA.  
 
8. The Designated Officer, acting on behalf of the C ommission, may refuse to issue a licence, or may 
revoke, suspend, or amend the terms and conditions of a licence, for reasons of: protection of the 
environment and of the health and safety of persons; maintenance of national security; and 
requirements rela ted to international obligations to which Canada has agreed (section 24, NSCA). 
In such cases, the NSCA provides the applicant or, as appropriate the licensee, the right to be heard 
by the Commission, which can decide to uphold the decision of the Designat ed Officer or modify it.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. All persons, firms and institutions are eligible to apply for an import licence. There are no 
application fees for requests to import, nor is there a system of registration of entit ies that engage 
in import activities. However, nuclear substances may not be imported unless the applicant also 
holds a valid licence issued by the CNSC for the possession and use of the nuclear substance being 
imported. The CNSC does not publish a list of  authorized importers.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Information required on applications to import a controlled nuclear substance, controlled nuclear 
equipment or controlled nuclear information is specified in the  Nuclear Non -proliferation Import and 
Export Control Regulations  (NNIECR), and includes: name and contact information of the applicant 
and of each consignee; description of the substance, equipment or information; name and address 
of the supplier; country of origin of the imported item; intended end -use of the item by the final 
consignee and the intended end -use location; the number of any licence to possess the substance, 
equipment or information; and, as applicable, the measures that will be taken to faci litate Canada’s 
compliance with certain international obligations. An application form, with instructions for 
completion, is provided on the CNSC website ( http://www.nuclearsafety.gc.ca ). 
 
11. Importers must present the import licence to a customs officer upon importing the authorized 
nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or prescribed information (section 18,  General Nuclear 
Safety and Control Regulations ). 
 
12. No; there are no licensing fees or administrative charges associated with the issuance of an 
import licence.  
 
13. No; there is no requirement for any deposit or advance payment associated with the issuance 
of an import licence.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. The period of validity depends on the nature of the import, with a default term of 1 year. The 
validity of a licence may be extended through amendment upon written application.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 17 - 
 
  15. No; there is no penalty for  non-utilization of a licence.  
 
16. Yes. The NSCA was amended in 2012 to allow for transfer of licences. Those amendments allow 
the CNSC to authorize the transfer of an import licence from the existing licence holder to another 
importer, upon receipt of an application and subject to applicable regulations. The CNSC must satisfy 
itself that the recipient of the licence proposed for transfer is qualified to conduct the activity to be 
authorized, and that the recipient will make adequate provision  for the protection of the 
environment, the health and safety of persons, and the maintenance of national security and 
measures required to implement international obligations to which Canada has agreed.  
 
17.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b)  The CNSC may include i n an import licence any condition it considers necessary for the 
purposes of the NSCA, including compliance reporting conditions.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Applications to import items that are subject to the provisions of bilateral non -proliferat ion 
agreements that Canada has entered into with nuclear trading partners, for the purpose of assuring 
that Canada’s nuclear non -proliferation policy requirements are met, may require the CNSC to 
implement administrative procedures with regulatory counterp arts in the exporting country. There 
are no additional requirements placed on importers as a result of this, but implementing these 
bilateral procedures can require additional time to complete the processing and assessment of import 
applications.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
  
6  CANADIAN ENERGY REGU LATOR ACT  
Clarification to all below: The CER Act will remove the requirement for importation licences in the 
future, either after 28 August 2022, or after regulations prescribing what importation information is 
to be submitted to the Regulator and the frequency of submission. Currently the import order regime 
remains in place as a transitional provision.  
  
On 28 August 2019, the National Energy Board Act (the NEB Act) was repealed and replaced with 
the Canadian Energy Regulator Act (the CER Act). The CER Act establishes a new Canada Energy 
Regulator (CER), replacing the National Energy Board (NEB). The CER comprises a Board of Directors 
to provide oversight and strategic direction and a Chief Executive Officer (CEO), wh o is responsible 
for day -to-day operations, and is separate from the Chair of the Board.  
  
The new CER also includes a group of independent Commissioners who are responsible for timely, 
inclusive and transparent project reviews and decision -making. The Com mission has all the powers, 
rights and privileges vested in a superior court of record with respect to any matters within its 
jurisdiction. The CER Act also allows for regulations permitting the CEO to designate officers of the 
CER to perform certain power s, duties and functions of the Commission, some of which may 
potentially relate to importation.  
  
A major consequence of the CER Act is that licenses and orders will no longer be required for the 
importation of oil and gas into Canada on or before 28 Augus t 2022.  
 
Outline of system  (reflecting  NEB Act  amendments, but not the regulations being 
updated)  
 
1. The  Canadian Energy Regulator Act  and the  National Energy Board  Act Part VI (Oil and 
Gas) Regulations  (Part VI Regulations) made under the predecessor NEB  Act control imports of 
natural gas, whether in gaseous or liquid state, by pipeline, railway tank cars and tank trucks or 
tankers. Imports are authorized by both licences and orders. Licences are issued for long -term 
imports while orders are used in the c ase of long -term small volume imports, emergency imports or 
and short -term large volume imports. An application is made to the Board for import authorization. 
No licence is effective until approved by the Governor -in-Council. The issuance of an import orde r 
requires the approval of the Board and does not require a public hearing or Governor in Council G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 18 - 
 
  approval.  The new  Canadian Energy Regulator Act  removes the requirement to obtain a license  or 
order  before importing oil and gas into Canada  subject to chang es to the Part VI Regulations).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
 
2. Under the CER Act, licenses  or orders will  no longer required for the importation of oil or gas as 
of 28 August 2019.   The import license and order requirements of the Part VI Regulations will remain 
in effect until the earlier of the date they are amended or replaced, or  28 August 2022.  
 
3. The system described applies to gas originating in and coming from any country.  
 
4. The import license and order requirements of the Part VI Regulations will remain in effect until 
the earlier of the date they ar e amended or replaced, or  28 August 2022.  
  
5. The authorization of imports is maintained under the  Canadian Energy Regulator Act  for all new 
import activities on or after 28 August 2019. For imports authorizations initiated prior to 
28 August  2019, the  National Energy Board Act , a statute of the Parliament of Canada, and 
the National Energy Board Act Part VI (Oil and Gas) Regulation s continue to apply. The term "gas" 
is define d in the Act and is not subjected to administrative discretion. Legislative action would be 
required to abolish the system.  
 
Procedures  
 
6. I-IV.  There is no quota system. Determinations are made on a case -by-case basis.  
  
V.      While the requirement to  obtain a license remains in effect, for processing license applications 
a public hearing may be required and is at the discretion of the CER. The length of time to 
process a licence application is approximately four months or longer depending on whether a  
public hearing is deemed necessary. Applications for orders can be approved very quickly. 
Typical processing time for emergency and short -term imports is 48 hours, while processing 
time for long -term import orders is two to six weeks or more.  
  
VI.     In some cases, imports commence immediately upon issuance of the authorization, or, 
depending on the requirements of the import arrangement, there may be some interval 
between the authorization and the commencement of the import.  
  
VII.    The prospect ive importer has to approach one administrative organ only, the Canada Energy 
Regulator.  
  
VIII.   Applications are examined on receipt. There is no allocation of import authorizations to 
applicants.  
  
IX.     There are no applicable bilateral or multilateral arrangements besides the Canada -U.S. Free 
Trade Agreement and the North American Free Trade Agreement.  
  
X.      The granting of import authorization would generally be conditional on an export authorization 
being granted by the appropriate fo reign government agency.  
  
7.(a)  Application for a licence should be made in advance of importation by a reasonable length of 
time, depending on the size and complexity of the importation arrangement.  
  
(b)     An order can be granted very quickly by the Commission.  A licence may, at the discretion of 
the CER require that a public hearing be held.  
  
(c)     There are no limitations as to the period of the year during which application for import 
authorization may be made.  
  
(d)     See response to VII abov e. 
  
8. An application for a licence may be refused for failure to meet criteria set out in the Part VI 
Regulations or where the import is not in the public interest. An applicant, in the event of refusal to 
issue a licence, may resubmit his application to  the Canada Energy Regulator with appropriate G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 19 - 
 
  amendments or may request a review. Appeal can be made to the Federal Court of Appeal on a 
question of law or jurisdiction, on leave being obtained from the Court. The import license and order 
requirements of t he Part VI Regulations will remain in effect until the earlier of the date they are 
amended or replaced, or  28 August 2022.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
 
9.  Any person is eligible to apply for an import licence.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
 
10. The Governor -in-Council may make regulations respecting the information to be furnished by 
applicants and the procedures to be followed in applying for import authorization. Section 5 of the 
Part VI Regulations entitled "Information to be Furnished by Applicant for Licence to Import Gas" 
sets out the information required to be filed by an applicant for a licence to import gas.  These 
Regulations will be updated to reflect changes to the import/export regime under the CER Act.   In 
addition, the Canada Energy Regulator may require further information about import activities. With 
respect to import orders, applicants must file such information as the Canada Energy R egulator may 
require. However, no specific information requirements for order applications are set out in the Act 
or in the Part VI Regulations.  
  
11. No documents are required upon actual importation. However, the holder of an import 
authorization is requ ired to provide the Canada Energy Regulator with information as required, 
including the actual volumes imported during the term of the authorization, and their value in 
Canadian currency.  
  
12.  There is no fee or administrative charge in respect of an app lication at present.  
  
13.  There is no deposit or advance payment requirement associated with the issue of the import 
authorization.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
 
14.  No import  license  may be issued for a term in excess of 25 years.  The validity of an order cannot 
be extended beyond this period without an amendment to the Act by Parliament.  
  
15.  There is no penalty for the non -utilization of an order or a portion of an order. Orders are 
permissive only.  
  
16.  Yes. They are transferable subject to Canada Energy Regulator and Governor -in-Council 
approval.  
  
17.  Conditions attached to the issue of orders may include those matters prescribed by the Part VI 
Regulations, including: duration of the order, the period within which the import must commence,  
the quantities of import, points of importation into Canada , environmental requirements and the 
granting of export authorization by the appropriate foreign government agency.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
 
18. Apart from procedures defined in the Regulat ions made pursuant to the Act, including 
requirements associated with inspection, metering and reporting, no additional administrative 
procedures are required.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
7  EXPORT AND IMPORT PE RMITS ACT  
For this Export and Import Permits Act section, general responses in respect of dairy products; 
chicken, turkey and eggs; broiler hatching eggs and chicks; beef and veal; margarine; wheat, barley 
and their products have been provided for questions 5, 8 -10, 12 -19 of the Questionnaire.  The replies 
to the remaining questions have been organized by separate product groups owing to difference in 
the procedures involved.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 20 - 
 
  7.1  General Responses Applicable to Dairy Products; Chicken, Turkey and Eggs; Broiler 
Hatching Eggs and C hicks; Beef and Veal; Margarine; Wheat, Barley and their products  
Note:  Effective 1 January 1995 (or 1 August 1995, for wheat, barley and their products, butter, dry 
whey and cream), in compliance with its World Trade Organization (WTO) commitments, Canad a 
converted its agricultural import controls to a system of tariff rate quotas (TRQs). Under these TRQs, 
imports within the TRQ level, i.e. within the access commitment, require a permit issued through 
the Trade Controls Policy Division of the Global Affai rs Canada in order to benefit from the lower rate 
of duty. Imports over the quota level, subject to higher rates of duty, may enter under a General 
Import Permit. For wheat, barley and their products, the TRQ is administered on a first -come, 
first-served b asis. 
 
Effective 8 September 2008, Canada implemented import controls for milk protein substances with 
a milk protein content of 85 % or more by weight, calculated on the dry matter, that do not originate 
in a NAFTA country, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel. Im port controls were established to implement a 
change in Canada's WTO obligations subsequent to a re -negotiation of a tariff concession, outlined 
in Joint Letters, as concluded with New Zealand, Switzerland and the EC under GATT Article XXVIII. 
A TRQ for mi lk protein substances with a milk protein content of 85 % or more by weight, calculated 
on the dry matter, that do not originate in a NAFTA country, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel, was 
established effective 1st April 2009. Certification of these changes to C anada's Schedule V became 
effective 6 July 2011.  
 
Effective 21 September 2017, the date of the entry into force of the Comprehensive Economic and 
Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union, import controls for milk protein 
substances were amended to remove controls for such products originating from an EU country or 
other CETA beneficiaries.2 Consistent with its commitments, Canada also introduced two new 
bilateral cheese TRQs.  
 
Effective 30 December 2018, the Comprehensive  and Progressive agreement for Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP) entered into force. Consistent with its commitments, Canada introduced new 
bilateral TRQs for 16 dairy products and 4 poultry products. Canada is implementing all CPTPP TRQs 
using interim all ocation policies and expects to implement final allocation policies for the 2021 TRQ 
year.  
 
Canada has initiated a comprehensive review of Canada’s supply managed tariff rate quotas (TRQs), 
including all of Canada’s dairy and poultry TRQs and covering all  aspects of TRQ allocation and 
administration.  
 
The comprehensive review will include two rounds of stakeholder consultations, leading to the 
publication of allocation policies in 2020, to take effect for the 2021 TRQ year. The first round of 
consultations  closed on 31st August 2019. The second round of consultations will be held from 
January to March 2020 and will seek feedback on draft allocation policies for each supply managed 
TRQ. 
 
Outline of system  
1.  See section 6(B).  
 
Purpose and coverage of licens ing 
2.-4.  See Product Outline in section 6(B).  
 
5. Licensing is maintained through regulations under the Export and Import Permits Act . Individual 
products are not designated in the Act.  
 
An Import Control List  has been established by regulation by the Go vernor -in-Council. The list 
includes goods, the import of which it is deemed necessary to control for any of the following 
purposes, namely:  
 
                                                
2 Regulations Defining “EU country or other CETA beneficiary”, SOR/2017 -178, 
  https://laws -lois.justice.gc.ca  . G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 21 - 
 
  - to ensure, in accordance with the needs of Canada, the best possible supply and distribution 
of an article that is scarce in world markets or in Canada or is subject to government controls 
in the countries of origin or to allocation by inter -governmental arrangement;  
-  to restrict, for the purpose of supporting any action taken under the Farm Products Marketing 
Agencies Act , the importation in any form of a like article to one produced or marketed in 
Canada the quantities of which are fixed or determined under that Act;  
-  to implement any action taken under the Farm Income Protection Act , the Fisheries  Prices 
Support Act , the Agricultural Products Co -operative Marketing Act , the Agricultural Products 
Board Act  or the Canadian Dairy Commission Act , with the object or the effect of supporting 
the price of the article;  
-  to implement an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment; and  
-  where at any time it appears to the satisfaction of the Governor -in-Council on a report of the 
Minister made pursuant to an inquiry made under section 20 or 26 of the Canadian 
International Trade Tribunal Act  by the Canadi an International Trade Tribunal in respect of 
any goods, that goods of any kind are being imported or are likely to be imported into Canada 
at such prices, in such quantities and under such conditions as to cause or threaten serious 
injury to the productio n in Canada of like or directly competitive goods, any goods of the same 
kind may, by order of the Governor -in-Council, be included on the Import Control List  in order 
to limit the importation of such goods to the extent and for the period that, in the opi nion of 
the Governor -in-Council, is necessary to prevent or remedy the injury.  
 
Once an item has been placed on the Import Control List , an import permit, either specific or general, 
is required by the Act to import such goods into Canada.  
 
Specific products can be made subject to either individual licensing or open general licensing by the 
Minister.  
 
Licensing requirements may be abolished by the Governor -in-Council by removing an item from the 
Import Control List . Only Parliament can alter or amend the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
The Minister may also decide to allocate shares of the within -TRQ access for any product in advance. 
Where this system is used, import permits (licences) are normally issued automatically up to the 
level of an i mporter's share.  
 
Procedures  
6.-7.  See Product Outline in section 6(B).  
 
8.  Permit applications that are complete and meet the general requirements are not normally 
refused. If eligibility criteria have not been met (e.g., no quota entitlement) or the ap plication 
contains errors, the applicant will be informed; in such event the applicant may correct the 
application or request reconsideration, or the applicant may choose to pay the over -access tariff and 
import the goods under a General Import Permit, whi ch is automatically applicable.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Only residents of Canada may apply for a permit. Citizenship is not a criterion.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. The applicant is req uired to provide the information requested on the application for an import 
permit. For certain products, additional information and/or documentation may be required, as 
indicated in the specific product group responses.  
 
11.  See Product Outline in sectio n 6(B).  
 
12.  Any applicant may apply directly to the Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa for a permit, for which 
the associated fee ranges from CA D$15.00 to CA D$31.00, according to the value of the goods.  
 
For permits issued at other authorized (non-Government) computer terminals, permit fees range 
from CA D$10.00 to CA D$26.00 (according to the value of the goods). This fee does not cover the 
cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 22 - 
 
  13.  No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import per mits normally have a validity of 30 days. Requests for extension of the validity period 
submitted prior to the original expiry date are considered on their merits, e.g., supporting 
documentation outlining extraordinary circumstances that prevented the impo rtation of goods within 
the time frame of the permit. If a permit has not been used, the importer may apply for its 
cancellation.  
 
15.  There is no penalty for non -utilization of import permits that are returned for cancellation.  
 
16.  Permits are not tran sferable between importers.  
 
17.  Under very particular circumstances, special conditions may be attached from time to time.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  No. 
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
Additional information required under CETA Annex 2 -A and CPTPP Artic le 2.12  
20. Under Annex 2 -A of Chapter 2 of the CETA, Canada reserved its right to apply an end -use 
requirement to imports under the TRQ for industrial cheese; namely, that all imports under this TRQ 
be used as ingredients for further food processing (seco ndary manufacturing) imported in bulk (not 
for retail sale),  
 
Under Appendix A to Chapter 2 -D of Chapter 2 of the CPTPP, Canada reserved its right to apply 
end-use requirements to imports under certain CPTPP TRQs ; specifically, that all imports under the 
TRQ for concentrated milk be for retail sale only; that specified  percentages of the TRQs for milk, 
butter, yogurt and buttermilk, and industrial cheeses be reserved for goods in bulk (not for retail 
sale) used as ingredients for further food processi ng (secondary manufacturing); and, that the 
imports under the TRQ for eggs be used in priority for the importation of eggs for breaking purposes 
for further food processing (secondary manufacturing).  
 
21. Where Canada allocates shares of the within -TRQ acc ess, obtaining a shipment -specific import 
licence depends upon having received an allocation in advance. As part of TRQ allocation processes, 
Canada does not impose any of the following conditions: membership in an industry association; 
approval by an indu stry association of the request for an import licence; a minimum importer or end 
user registered capital; or, contractual or other relationship between the importer and a distributor 
in the Party’s territory. In certain instances, Canada applies the follow ing eligibility requirements 
mentioned in Article 2.12 paragraph 6 of Chapter 2 of CPTPP:  
 
- When Canada established the WTO TRQs for yoghurt, cheese, condensed milk, powdered 
buttermilk, ice cream, milk protein substances, chicken and chicken products, tur key and 
turkey products, and eggs and egg products, individual traditional importers of these 
products were reserved a portion of the within -access TRQ volumes. These importers retain 
their allocations year over year on the condition that they have met uti lization thresholds 
(90 to 95 %) in the current TRQ year.  
- Under the global TRQs and CPTPP TRQs for chicken, Canada requires “processor” pool 
applicants to have a minimum production capacity defined as buying at least 250,000 
kilograms of chicken and subsequently selling at least 250,000 kilograms of processed 
chicken and chicken products.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 23 - 
 
  7.2  Other Responses – by Product Groups  
7.2.1   Dairy Products  
Outline of system  
1. Dairy products remain on the Import Control List , established under the Export and Import Permits 
Act; effective 1 January 1995, existing import controls o n these products were replaced with tariff 
rate quotas (1 August 1995 for butter, cream and dry whey).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Dairy products were added to the Import Control List  under the authority of Paragraph 5(1) (a) 
and (d) and Section  5.3 of the Export and Import Permits Act . This includes fluid milk, cream, milk 
and cream powders, condensed milk, yoghurt and buttermilk, powdered buttermilk, whey powder, 
products consisting of natural milk constituents, butter, cheese of all types, dai ry-based products 
falling within tariff item number 1901.90.33, ice cream and ice cream products, and milk protein 
substances. All TRQs for dairy products are administered under an import licensing regime based on 
shipment specific permits and previous all ocation of import quota, with the exception of the WTO 
TRQ for fluid milk for personal consumption, which is administered by way of a general import permit.  
 
3.  The licensing system applies: for global TRQs, to goods originating in and imported from all 
countries; for CETA TRQs, to goods originating in and imported from CETA Parties; and, for CPTPP 
TRQs, to goods originating in and imported from CPTPP Parties . 
 
4.  This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for dairy products in accordance with Canada 's 
commitments under the WTO, CETA, and CPTPP.  
 
5.  See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6.  The following is a list of TRQ levels for the dairy products which are subject to import control:  
 
WTO TRQs  
 
- The TRQ level for  the WTO cheese  TRQ is 20,411.866 tonne s. As a result of an agreement 
between Canada and the European Union (EU), not less than 69.9 % of the cheese TRQ is 
allocated to member states of the EU and the remaining 30.1 % is allocated to any other 
(non-EU) WTO member. Current cheese TRQ allocation ho lders who are active in the cheese 
trade are granted an allocation annually, equivalent to amount they received and utilized in 
the previous year.  
- The TRQ for  WTO butter  is 3,274 tonnes. As a result of an agreement between Canada and 
New Zealand, there is  a country reserve of 2,000 tonnes of butter for New Zealand, with the 
balance open to all supplying countries; imports from New Zealand are counted against the 
balance only once the reserve is exhausted. This TRQ is allocated annually to the Canadian 
Dairy Commission for the benefit of processors and further processors.  
- The WTO TRQ for  ice cream  is 484 tonnes. Traditional ice cream importers continue to 
receive an initial allocation, as adjusted, e.g., for under -utilization; the remainder is 
allocated to i ce cream distributors.  
- The WTO TRQ level for  yoghurt  is 332 tonnes. Traditional yoghurt importers continue to 
receive an initial allocation, as adjusted, e.g., for under -utilization; the remainder is 
allocated to yoghurt distributors.  
- The WTO TRQ level for speciality creams  is 394 tonnes; allocations are made in priority to 
importers with established distribution lines, and once the requirements of these importing 
companies have been met, the balance (if any) is allocated to other applicants.  
- The WTO TRQ  level for  condensed milk  is 11.7 tonnes, allocated on a yearly basis to a 
traditional allocation holder. The TRQ for condensed milk is allocated entirely to Australia.  
- The WTO TRQ level for  powdered buttermilk  is 908 tonnes, allocated on a yearly basis to  a 
traditional allocation holder. The TRQ for powdered buttermilk is allocated entirely to 
New Zealand.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 24 - 
 
  - The WTO TRQ level for  dry whey  is 3,198 tonnes. Allocations are made in priority to users 
of specialty -type whey not available from domestic sources tha t can demonstrate a 
requirement for this product in their manufacturing / production formulations. The balance, 
if any, is allocated to processors and further processors that can demonstrate a requirement 
for whey in their manufacturing / production formul ations.  
- The WTO TRQ level for  other products of natural milk constituents  is 4,345 tonnes. 
Allocations are made in priority to users of milk protein concentrate that can demonstrate a 
requirement for this product in their manufacturing / product formulatio ns. The balance, if 
any, is allocated to processors and further processors that can demonstrate a requirement 
for other products of natural milk constituents in their manufacturing / product formulations.  
- The WTO TRQ level for  milk protein substances  with a milk protein content of 85 % or more 
by weight, calculated on the dry matter, that do not originate in a NAFTA country, an EU 
country or other CETA beneficiary, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel,  is 10,000 tonnes. 
9,500  tonnes are allocated to residents of Can ada that can demonstrate a requirement for 
these products in their manufacturing operations and product formulations. Of this 9,500 
tonnes, 7,500 tonnes are allocated to traditional allocation holders and 2,000 tonnes are 
allocated to new entrants. 500 ton nes are made available to residents of Canada that 
purchase (i.e., take ownership of) and re -sell these products.  
- The WTO TRQ level for  food preparations falling within tariff item number 1901.90.33  is 
70 tonnes. Allocations are made on a first -come first -serve basis.   
 
CETA TRQs  
 
- The TRQ level for  the CETA cheese  TRQ, established on 2 October 2017, is 8,000 tonnes for 
the 2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a market share basis 
to eligible cheese manufacturers, distributors an d retailers.  The TRQ applies to EU 
originating cheese only.  This TRQ is being phased in over five years and will reach 16,000 
tonnes on 1 January 2022.  
- The TRQ level for  the CETA Industrial cheese TRQ, established on 2 October 2017,  is 
850 tonnes for th e 2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a market 
share basis to eligible further processors. The TRQ applies to EU originating cheese only.  
This TRQ is being phased in over five years and will reach 1,700 tonnes on 1 January 2022 . 
 
CPTPP TRQs (interim allocation policies)  
 
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP milk TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 16,667 tonnes 
for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a market share 
basis to processors (85%) and on an equal share basis to distributors (15%). The TRQ 
applies to milk originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over 19  years 
and will reach 56,905 tonnes on 1 August 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP Cream TRQ, established on 30 December  2018, is 515 tonnes 
for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a market share 
basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an equal share 
basis to eligible distributors (10%). The TRQ applies to crea m originating from CPTPP parties 
only. This TRQ is being phased in over fourteen years and will reach 734 tonnes on 
1 August  2031.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP concentrated milk TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
667 tonnes for the 2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a market 
share basis to eligible processors (85%), and on an equal share basis to eligible distributors 
(15%). This TRQ applies to concentrated milk originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ 
is being phased in over nineteen years and will reach 2,587 tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP skim milk powder TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
2,500 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a 
market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an 
equal share basis to eligible distributors (10%). The TRQ applies to skim milk powders 
originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and 
will reach 11,014 tonnes on 1 August 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP milk powder TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
1,010  tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a 
market share basis to eligible processors (80%) an d further processors (10%), and on an 
equal share basis to eligible distributors (10%). This TRQ applies to milk powders originating G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 25 - 
 
  from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over fourteen years and will reach 
1,138 tonnes on 1 August 2031.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP cream powders TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
101 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a marker 
share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an equa l 
share basis to eligible distributors (10%). This TRQ applies to cream powders originating 
from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over fourteen years and will reach 
114 tonnes on 1 August 2031.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP Yogurt and Buttermi lk TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, 
is 2,000 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on 
a market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an 
equal share basis to eligible dist ributors (10%). The TRQ applies to yogurt and buttermilk 
originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and 
will reach 7,762 tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP powdered buttermilk TRQ, established on  30 December 2018, 
is 765 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a 
market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an 
equal share basis to eligible distributors (10%). This TRQ  applies to concentrated milk 
originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over fourteen years and 
will reach 970 tonnes on 1 January 2031.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP whey powder TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 2,000 
tonnes fo r the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a market 
share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an equal 
share basis to eligible distributors (10%). The TRQ applies to whey powder originating fro m 
CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over eleven years, at which point over -access 
duties will be eliminated for imports from CPTPP Parties.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP butter TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 1,500 tonnes 
for the 2019 /20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (dairy year) on a market share 
basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an equal share 
basis to eligible distributors (10%). The TRQ applies to butter originating from CPTPP parties  
only. This TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and will reach 5,121 tonnes on 
1 August 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP cheese TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 1,208 tonnes 
for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar  year) on a market share 
basis to eligible processors (85%) and on an equal share basis to eligible distributors (15%). 
The TRQ applies to cheese originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in 
over 19 years and will reach 4,126 tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP Industrial cheese TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
2,658 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a 
market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further pro cessors (20%). The TRQ 
applies to cheese originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over 
nineteen years and will reach 9,076 tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP mozzarella and prepared cheese TRQ, established on 
30 December 2018, is 967 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually 
(calendar year) on a market share basis to eligible processors (85%) and on an equal share 
basis to eligible distributors (15%). The TRQ applies to chees e originating from CPTPP parties 
only. This TRQ is being phased in over 19 years and will reach 3,300 tonnes on 
1 January  2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP products consisting of natural milk constituents TRQ, established 
on 30 December 2018, is 1,333 tonnes for the 2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated 
annually (calendar year) on a market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further 
processors (10%), and on an equal share basis to eligible distributors (10%). The TRQ 
applies to products of nat ural milk constituents originating from CPTPP parties only. This 
TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and will reach 4,552 tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP other dairy TRQ, established on 30 December 2018, is 
1,010  tonnes for the  2019/20 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on a 
market share basis to eligible processors (80%) and further processors (10%), and on an 
equal share basis to eligible distributors (10%). This TRQ applies to other dairy originating 
from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over fourteen years and will reach 
1,138 tonnes on 1 January 2031. The over -access tariff on tariff item 1517.90.22 will be 
eliminated in year 6.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 26 - 
 
  I.   Information on TRQs and related formalities is publish ed in the Canada Gazette and in Notices 
to Importers, which are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada.  
  
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on the Global Affairs Canada 
website at:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/prod/agri/index.aspx . 
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  For WTO TRQs, i f an allocation holder uses less than 90 % of its allocation (9 5% for cheese, 
products of natural milk constituents, dry whey, milk protein substances with a milk protein 
content of 85 % or more by weight, calculated on the dry matter, that do not originate in a 
NAFTA country, an EU country or other CETA beneficiary, Chile, Costa Rica, or Israel, and 
cream), the allocation in the next year will normally reflect the actual level of use. Allocations 
not used in a quota year cannot be carried into the next quota  year. 
 
For CETA and CPTPP TRQs, if an allocation holder uses less than 95 % of its allocation (90 % 
for CPTPP ice cream and mixes, and CPTPP yogurt and buttermilk), the allocation in the next 
year will be reduced downwards by the percentage of the allocatio n not utilized in the previous 
year. Allocations not used in a quota year cannot be carried into the next quota year.  
 
IV.  Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Policy Division of 
Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the 
expected date of  arrival of the shipment to Canada. Import permits are normally issued with 
a validity period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by importers (five days prior 
to and 24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year may not be utilized  in the next 
quota year.  
 
VIII.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  Supplementary imports may also be authorized for re -export or to meet domestic market 
shortages.  
 
7.  See Section 6.  
 
8.  See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  See General Responses.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  See General Responses.  
 
11. Documents required upon actual importation: import permit, customs entry documents  and food 
certificates as required under the Canadian Dairy Products Act and Regulations . 
 
12.  Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CA D$10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers. 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13.  No. 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 27 - 
 
  Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See General Responses.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
 
7.2.2   Chicken, Turkey and Eggs  
Outline of system  
1. Chicken, turkey, shell eggs a nd egg products remain on the Import Control List , established under 
the Export and Import Permits Act . Effective 1 January 1995, existing import controls on these 
products were replaced with TRQs.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Imports of chicken and chicken products, turkey and turkey products, and eggs and egg products 
are subject to global TRQs and preferential TRQs under the CPTPP. All shipments within the TRQ 
access are administered using shipment specific permits and pre vious allocation of import quota, 
These products were placed on the Import Control List  under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a) and 
(b) and Sections 5.3 and 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act.  
 
3. The system applies to: for global TRQs, goods originat ing in and imported from all countries; and, 
for CPTPP TRQs, goods originating in and imported from CPTPP Parties.  
 
4. The licensing system is used to implement TRQs on chicken and chicken products, turkey and 
turkey products, and eggs and egg products in accordance with Canada's commitments under the 
WTO and the NAFTA, as well as the CPTPP.  
 
5. See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6. For Canada’s global TRQs for chicken, turkey, shell eggs and egg products, the access provided 
by Canada is the greater of its  NAFTA or WTO commitment.  
 
The TRQ level established for chicken and chicken products under the WTO is 39,843.7 tonnes 
(bone -in eviscerated equivalent basis). Under the provisions of the North American Free Trade 
Agreement (NAFTA), Canada provides a globa l TRQ for chicken and chicken products 
equivalent to 7.5 % of the previous year's domestic production.  Depending on the chicken 
product, different conversion factors are used to convert the weights in eviscerated 
equivalence.  
 
The TRQ level for turkey and turkey products established under the WTO is 5,588 tonnes 
(bone -in eviscerated equivalent basis). Under the provisions of the NAFTA, Canada provides 
a global TRQ for turkey and turkey products equivalent to 3.5 % of the current year's estimated 
production ( bone-in eviscerated equivalent basis). Depending on the turkey product, different 
conversion factors are used to convert the weights in eviscerated equivalence.  
 
The TRQ level for eggs and egg products established under the WTO is 21,370,000 dozen.  
Under the provisions of the NAFTA, Canada provides a global TRQ for shell eggs and egg 
products of 2.988 % of the previous year's domestic production. It is split among shell eggs 
(1.647 %), frozen, liquid and further processed eggs (0.714 %), and powdered eggs (0.627 %).     
 
For Canada’s CPTPP TRQs for chicken and chicken products, turkey and turkey products, and eggs 
and egg products, the access provided by Canada is the volume indicated in Appendix A (Tariff Rate 
Quotas) to Section 2 -D (General N otes to Tariff Schedule – Canada) to Chapter 2 (National 
Treatment and Market Access for Goods) of the CPTPP. The CPTPP TRQs are being administered 
under interim allocation policies.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 28 - 
 
  - The TRQ level for the CPTPP Chicken TRQ, established on 30 December 201 8 is 7,833 
eviscerated tonnes for the 2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) on 
a market share basis to eligible processors (85%) and on an equal share basis to eligible 
distributors (10%) and food services providers (5%). This TRQ ap plies to chicken and 
chicken products originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over 
nineteen years and will reach 26,745 eviscerated tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP Turkey TRQ, established on 30 December 2018 i s 1,167 
eviscerated tonnes for the 2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (market year) on 
a market share basis to eligible processors (85%), and on an equal share basis to eligible 
distributors (15%). This TRQ applies to turkey and turkey products o riginating from CPTPP 
parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and will reach 3,983 
eviscerated tonnes on 1 January 2036.  
- The TRQ level for the CPTPP Eggs TRQ, established on 30 December 2018 is 5,566,667 
dozen (egg equivalent) for the  2019 TRQ year. The TRQ is allocated annually (calendar year) 
in priority to eligible registered processing stations. The remaining balance, if any, is 
allocated to eligible registered grading stations. This TRQ applies to eggs and egg products 
originating  from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in over nineteen years and 
will reach 19,006,158 dozen egg equivalent on 1 January 2036.  
 
The basic procedure that applies to imports under the global TRQs and the CPTPP TRQs is that a 
quantitative limit i s established yearly, applications are solicited and reviewed, and individual 
applicants are informed whether they have qualified for an allocation. Applications are evaluated in 
accordance with the criteria that are published in the applicable Notices to Importers.   
 
In the case of turkeys, individual allocations may be utilized at any time during the quota year.  For 
chicken and chicken products, utilization of individual allocations by larger TRQ holders is limited to 
30% per calendar year quarter, whil e shell egg allocations to larger TRQ holders are accompanied 
by an import schedule to help ensure that imports coincide with periods of peak demand in Canada.   
 
I.  Information on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Not ices 
to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders, and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada . 
 
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on the DFAIT website at: 
http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/prod/agri/ index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R . 
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  If an allocation holder for these products uses less than 90 % of its allocation (95 % in the case 
of egg products), the allocation in the next year will be reduced by the percentag e of the 
allocation not utilized in the previous quota year.  Allocation not used in one quota year is not 
available for carry -over to the next quota year.  
 
IV.  Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Policy Division of 
Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted  30 days prior to the 
expected date of arrival of the shipment to Canada.  Import permits are normally issued with 
a validity period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by importers (five days prior 
to and 24 days after). Utilization of permits  for one quota year is not allowed in the next quota 
year. 
 
VIII.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  A supplementary import policy is in place to accommodate market shortages. Supplementary 
imports may also be authorized for re-export.  
 
7. See Section 6.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 29 - 
 
  8. See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See General Responses.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for applications for licence  
10. See General Responses.  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required in addition to health certificates 
as required under the Canada Agriculture Products Act.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
compute r terminals.  Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See General Responses.  
 
Other proce dural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
 
7.2.3   Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks  
Outline of system  
1. Broiler hatching eggs and chicks remain on the Import Control List , established under the Export 
and Import Permits Act .  Effective 1 January 1995, existing import controls on these products were 
replaced with tariff rate quotas.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Broiler Hatching Eggs and Chicks were placed on the Import Control List  under the authority of 
Paragraph  5(1) (b) and Section 5.3 of th e Export and Import Permits Ac t.   All shipments within the 
TRQ access are administered using shipment specific permits and previous allocation of import 
quota.  
 
3. The system applies to: for global TRQs, goods originating in and imported from all countrie s; and, 
for CPTPP TRQs, for goods originating in and imported from CPTPP Parties . 
 
4. This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for broiler hatching eggs and chicks in accordance 
with Canada's commitments under the WTO and the CPTPP.  
 
5. See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6. For the global TRQ, the annual TRQ level is the greater of the WTO commitment or the 
commitment that Canada agreed to via an Exchange of Notes with the United States.  The WTO 
commitment for broiler hatching eggs and chicks is 7,9 49,000  dozen (egg equivalent). Under the 
provisions of the bilateral agreement with the United States, Canada provides a TRQ level for broiler 
hatching eggs and chicks of 21.1 % of the current year's estimated domestic production, split into 
separate access  commitments for eggs (17.4 %) and chicks (3.7 %).  Each chick is counted as 1.27 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 30 - 
 
  hatching eggs.  Holders of TRQ for hatching eggs may convert their allocation into TRQ for chicks, 
but TRQ for chicks is not convertible into TRQ for hatching eggs.  
  
TRQ access provided by Canada is the greater of its NAFTA and WTO commitments.  This access 
level is determined annually and is allocated to federally registered hatcheries on the basis of market 
share minus adjustments for under -utilization.  Allocation holde rs are permitted to import up to their 
allocated annual level at any time during the calendar year.  
 
For Canada’s CPTPP TRQ on broiler hatching eggs and chicks, e stablished on 30 December 2018 is 
333,333 dozen (egg equivalent) for the 2019 TRQ year . Under the interim allocation policy, this TRQ 
is allocated annually (calendar year) to eligible federally registered hatcheries. This TRQ applies to 
broiler hatching eggs and chicks originating from CPTPP parties only. This TRQ is being phased in 
over nineteen y ears and will reach 1,138,093 dozen (egg equivalent) on 1 January 2036.  
 
I.  Information on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Notices 
to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders , and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada . 
 
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on the Global Affairs Canada  
website at:  
http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R  . 
 
II.  See introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  If an allocation hol der uses less than 90 % of its allocation, the allocation will be reduced by 
the percentage  of the allocation not utilized (in egg equivalents) in the previous quota year.  
An allocation not used in one quota year will not be available for carryover to the next quota 
year. 
 
IV.  Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. I mport permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs  brokers in major cities across Canad a, or (b) at the Trade Controls Policy Division of 
Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the 
expected date of arrival of the shipment to Canada.  Import permits are normally issued with 
a validity period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by importers (five days prior 
to and 24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year is not allowed in the next quota 
year. 
 
VIII.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  A suppl ementary import policy is in place to accommodate market shortages.  Supplementary 
imports may also be authorized for re -export.  
 
7. See Section 6.  
 
8. See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See General Responses.  
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. See General Responses.  
 
11. Documents required upon actual importation:  import permit, customs entry documents and 
health certificates as required under the Canada Agricultu re Products Act . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 31 - 
 
  12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals.  Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of a ny additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See General Responses.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
 
7.2.4   Beef and Veal  
Outline of system  
1. Effective 1 January 1995, beef and veal were placed on the Import Control List  established under 
the Export and Import Permits Act ; and the existing import control measures for these products 
provided for under the Meat Import Act  were replaced with a t ariff rate quota.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2-3. In order to implement Canada's WTO commitments, beef and veal were placed on the Import 
Control List .  This action was taken under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a) and Section 5.3 of the 
Export a nd Import Permits Act .  An import permit is required for each shipment of these products 
originating in and imported from all countries except the United States, Mexico, Chile, and an EU 
country or other CETA beneficiary.  
 
4. This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for beef and veal in accordance with Canada's 
WTO commitments.  
 
5. See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6. In keeping with its WTO commitments, Canada has established an annual TRQ level for imports 
of fresh, chilled and frozen beef and vea l from non -FTA countries of 76,409 tonnes.  Of this quantity, 
29,600  tonnes are reserved for imports from New Zealand and 35,000 tonnes are reserved for 
imports from Australia. The balance of the TRQ, 11,809 tonnes (known as the MFN reserve) is 
reserved fo r imports from all other eligible suppliers, including those from New Zealand and Australia 
once their country -specific allocations are filled.    
 
I.  Information  on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Notices 
to Importer s. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada . 
 
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on Global Affairs Canada  website 
at: http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controle s/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R . 
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III. If an allocation holder uses less than 90 % of its allocation, the allocation in the next year will 
normally reflect the actual level of use.  An allocation not used in one quota year will not be 
available for carryover to the next quota year . 
 
IV.  Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 32 - 
 
  V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in t he offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Policy Division of 
Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa.  Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the 
expected date of arrival of the shipment to Canada.  Impor t permits are normally issued with 
a validity period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by importers (five days prior 
to and 24 days after).  Utilization of permits for one quota year is not allowed in the next 
quota year.  
 
VIII.  See the intr oduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  The Minister may authorize the importation of beef and veal supplementary to the TRQ if he 
judges that the importation serves the overall needs of the Canadian market.  
 
7. See Section 6.  
 
8. See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for permit  
9. See General Responses.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. See General Responses.  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required in addition to health certificates 
as required under the Canada Agriculture Products Act.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals.  Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (accor ding to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See General Responses.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
 
7.2.5   Margarine  
1. Effective 1 January 1995, margarine and butter substitutes, excluding liquid margarines, were 
placed on the Import Control List established under the Export and Import Permits Act ; and the 
existing import prohibitions for these products were replaced wi th a tariff rate quota.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. In order to fulfil Canada's WTO commitments for margarine, margarine was placed on the Import 
Control List .  This action was taken under the authority of Paragraph  5(1)(b) and Section 5.3 of th e 
Export and Import Permits Act .  An import permit is required for each shipment of margarine 
imported under the applicable within access tariff items.  
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and imported from all countries.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 33 - 
 
  4. This licensing syste m is used to implement a TRQ for margarine in accordance with Canada's WTO 
commitments.  
 
5. See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6. The TRQ level is 7,558 tonnes.  Import permits are allocated on a first -come, first -served basis, 
without restriction on the a pplicants (except that no applicant may import more than 500 tonnes in 
a calendar year).  Permits are normally valid for 30 days, but only within the TRQ year.  
 
I.  Information on TRQs and related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Notic es 
to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada . 
 
Notices to Importers and additional information are also available on the DFAIT website at: 
http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R  . 
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  Not applicable.  
 
IV.  Individual import permits are required for each shipment at the within -TRQ rates of duty.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Policy Division of 
the Global Affairs Canada .  Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the expected 
date of arrival of the shipment to Canada.  Import permits are normally issued with a validity 
period of 30 days around the date of arri val specified by importers (five days prior to and 
24 days after).  Utilization of permits for one quota year is not allowed in the next quota year.  
 
VIII.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  The Minister may authorize the imp ortation of margarine supplementary to the TRQ if he 
judges that the importation serves the overall needs of the Canadian market.  
 
7. See Section 6.  
 
8. See General Responses.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See General Responses.  
 
Docume ntational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. See General Responses.  
 
11. Documents required upon actual importation are: import permit and customs entry documents.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals.  Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional serv ices provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from the Global Affairs Canada  for which the associated fees 
range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 34 - 
 
  Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See Gener al Responses.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
 
7.2.6   Wheat, Barley and their Products  
Outline of system  
1. Effective 1 August 1995, wheat, barley, wheat products, and barley products were placed on the 
Import Control List , established under the Export and Import Permits Act ; and existing import 
controls on these products were replaced with tariff rate quotas . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. In order to fulfil its WTO commitments for wheat, barley and their products, Canada removed the 
requirement under the Canadian Wheat Board Act and related regulations for import licences for 
wheat, barley and their products and replaced them with a system of TRQs.  This required placing 
them on the Import Control List  under the authority of Paragraph 5(1)(a), 5( 1)(b) and Section  5.3 
of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
3. The system applies to goods originating in and imported from all countries.  Once the TRQ levels 
are reached, the following products continue to be assessed the "within access" lower rate of d uty: 
 
(a) Mexican, U.S., Chilean, Costa Rican, Peruvian wheat, barley, wheat products and barley 
products and certain wheat, barley, wheat products and barley products originating in an EU 
country or other CETA beneficiary (pursuant to NAFTA, CCFTA, CCRFTA , CETA and CPFTA);  
 
(b)  Wheat and barley products from any country, classified under the following specific tariff 
items:  
 
(i)  mixes and doughs, falling under tariff item No. 1901.20.14;  
(ii) pasta products, falling under tariff items Nos.1902.11.21, 1 902.19.12, 1902.19.22, 
1902.19.92, 1902.30.12 and 1902.30.31;  
(iii) cereals, falling under tariff items No. 1904.10.21, 1904.10.41, 1904.20.21, 1904.20.41, 
1904.30.21 and 1904.90.21;  
(iv)  bread products, falling under tariff item No. 1905.10.21, 1905.10 .51, 1905.40.31, 
1905.40.61 and 1905.90.32;  
(v)  biscuits, waffles and wafers falling under tariff item No. 1905.31.22, 1905.31.92, 
1905.32.92 and 1905.90.43; and  
(vi)  pretzels of tariff no. 1905.90.62 in packages of a weight not exceeding 1.36 kg.  
 
4. This licensing system is used to implement TRQs for wheat, barley and their products in 
accordance with Canada's WTO commitments.  
 
5. See General Responses.  
 
Procedures  
6. The TRQ levels are: wheat - 226,883 tonnes, barley - 399,000 tonnes, wheat products  - 123,557 
tonnes (grain equivalent) and barley products - 19,131 tonnes (grain equivalent).  There are no 
allocations to importers.  The TRQ is administered on a first -come, first -served basis from 1 August 
to 31 July each year.  
 
I.  Information on TRQs an d related formalities is published in the Canada Gazette and in Notices 
to Importers. The latter are distributed to customs brokers, associations and traders and are 
available upon request from Global Affairs Canada . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 35 - 
 
  Notices to Importers and additional in formation are also available on the DFAIT website at: 
http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/prod/agri/index.aspx?menu_id=3&menu=R  . 
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  TRQ not used in any quota year will not be available for carry -over to the quota year.  
 
IV.  The General Import Permit number must be stated on the customs entry document.  When 
the TRQ level for any product is reach ed, a different General Import Permit allows importation 
at the applicable over -access rate of duty.  
 
V-VII. Not applicable.  
 
VIII.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  The Minister may authorize the importation of wheat, wheat products, barley and barley 
products supplementary to the respective TRQ if he judges that the importation serves the 
overall needs of the Canadian  market.  
 
7. See Section 6.  
 
8. See General Respon ses. 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. See General Responses.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. See General Responses.  
 
11. Normal customs entry forms indicating the appropriate General Import Permit are required.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals.  Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any additional services provided by such issuers.  
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14-17. See General Responses.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. See General Responses.  
7.2.7   Textiles  
Outline of system  
1.  Textiles are on the Import Control List , established p ursuant to the  Export and Import Permits 
Act (EIPA). Quantitative restraints (i.e., quotas) on imports of textiles were eliminated for goods 
shipped after 31 December 2004 in accordance with the WTO Agreement on Textiles and Clothing 
(ATC). Individual impo rt licensing or open general licensing requirements for such goods were G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 36 - 
 
  eliminated on 1 April 2005. An import licensing system remains in place for textiles shipped in 
connection with Tariff Preference Level (TPL) provisions established pursuant to the Nor th American, 
Canada -Chile, Canada -Costa Rica, and Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreements and for origin 
quotas established pursuant to the Canada -European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade 
Agreement.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Textile produ cts on the Import Control List  subject to individual import permits for TPL are as 
follows: cotton or man -made fibre fabrics and made -up goods (NAFTA, Chile, Costa Rica); wool 
fabrics and made -up goods (Chile and Costa Rica); cotton or man -made fibre spun yarns (NAFTA, 
Chile, Costa Rica), and fabrics and made -up goods (Honduras). Origin quotas established under the 
Canada -European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) include certain 
woven fabrics, sewing thread, twine, carpets, plastic -coated/covered/laminated fabrics, linoleum, 
transmission or conveyor belts or belting, technical textile products, bed linens, toilet and kitchen 
linens, floor -cloths, polishing -cloths, dish -cloths and dusters.  
 
3.  The system applies to imports from the Uni ted States, Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, Honduras and 
the European Union or other CETA beneficiaries.  
 
4.  Tariff Preference Levels (TPL) are special FTA provisions that provide tariff preferences for imports 
of non -originating textile and apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified 
quantities, non -originating textile and apparel goods are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate 
of duty. The import licensing system is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on 
goods shi pped in connection with TPL provisions established pursuant to the Free Trade Agreements.  
 
Origin quotas are alternative rules of origin that enable preferential tariff access for imports of eligible 
textile goods up to a specified quantity. Above these sp ecified quantities, textile goods that do not 
meet the main rules of origin are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import 
licensing system is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on goods shipped in 
connection with o rigin quota provisions established pursuant to the CETA.  
 
5. The EIPA provides for the establishment of an Import Control List  to implement an 
intergovernmental arrangement or to prevent the frustration or the circumvention of such 
arrangements. Import per mits are issued for goods, including textiles, on the Import Control List . 
 
Procedures  
6.  The TPL levels primary units of measure (other than for yarns) are converted into Square Metre 
Equivalents (SMEs) by means of conversion factors found in each FTA. The yearly TPL levels for each 
FTA are as follows:  
 
-   Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreement – Fabrics and made -up goods: 1,000,000.  
-   Canada -Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement - Cotton or man -made fabrics and made -up goods: 
1,000,000 SME; Wool fabrics  and made -up goods: 250,000 SME; and Cotton or man -made 
fibre spun yarn: 150,000 kg.  
-   Canada -Chile Free Trade Agreement - Cotton or man -made fabrics and made -up goods 
(limited to goods of Chapter 60 of the HS): 1,000,000 SME; Wool fabrics and made -up go ods: 
250,000 SME; and Cotton or man -made fibre spun yarn: 500,000 kg.  
-   North America Free Trade Agreement - United States: Cotton or man -made fabrics and 
made -up goods: 2,000,000 SME; and Cotton or man -made fibre spun yarn: 1,000,000 kg; 
Mexico: Cotton or man -made fabrics and made -up goods: 7,000,000 SME; and Cotton or 
man-made fibre spun yarn: 1,000,000 kg.  
-   There are no allocations to importers. The TPLs are administered on a first -come, first -served 
basis from 1 January to 31 December each year.  
 
The origin quotas are measured by kilograms and square metres. The yearly origin quota levels are 
found in Table C.3 of the Protocol on rules of origin and origin procedures of the CETA: 
http://international.gc.ca/trade -commerce/trade -agreements -accords -commerciaux/agr -acc/ceta -
aecg/text -texte/P1.aspx?lang=eng#5_1   
 
- There are no allocations to importers.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 37 - 
 
  - The origin quotas are administered on a first -come, first -served basis from 1 January to 
31 December each year.  
 
I.   Information on TPLs and origin quotas and related formalities are published in the Canada 
Gazette, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) D -Memoranda and Customs Notice and in 
Notices to Importers. This information is available to customs brokers, associations and 
traders and upon request from Global Affairs Canada. Notices to Importers and additional 
information are also available on Global Aff airs Canada and CBSA websites at:  
 
TPL:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/textiles/index.aspx?menu_id=21&view=d  
http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
 
Origin Quotas:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -
controles/prod/ceta_origin_quotas -contingents_origine_aecg.aspx?lang=eng  
   https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html   
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III.  TPL or origin quota not used in one year is not available for c arry-over in the following year.  
 
IV.  Applications for TPL and origin quota permits are accepted until the TPL or origin quota level 
for a given TPL or origin quota is filled.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a ) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Bureau of Global 
Affairs Canada in Ottawa. Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the expected 
date of arrival of the shipment to Canada. Import per mits are normally issued with a validity 
period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by importers (five days prior to and 
24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year is not allowed in the next quota year.  
 
VIII.  TPLs and origin qu otas are made available on a first -come, first -served basis, whereby import 
permits are issued to importers on demand until the TPL or origin quota has been filled in a 
given year.  
 
IX-X.  Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No. 
 
7.(a) An import permit is required for e ach shipment of textiles for which a TPL or origin quota 
benefit is sought. An importer may apply for an import permit up to 30 days prior to the 
expected date of arrival of the associated goods.  
 
(b)   A permit is normally granted immediately upon request . 
 
(c)   See response to 7(a).  
 
(d)   Permit applications are considered by only one organization, the Trade Controls Bureau, Global 
Affairs Canada.  
 
8.  Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met. If a permit 
is refused, for example, because of incomplete information on the application, the applicant is 
advised and given the opportunity to correct the anomaly.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Any resident of Canada may apply for an impo rt permit.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Instructions and the information required to complete an import permit application and the form 
can be found on the web at:  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 38 - 
 
  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/about -a_propos/impor/permits -licences.aspx  
http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required.  
 
12.  Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers equipped with authorized 
computer terminals. Permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to the value of 
the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any addi tional services provided by such issuers.  
 
Permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada in Ottawa for which the associated 
fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the goods).  
 
13.  No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.  A permit is valid for 30 days. Should the permit expire, the cancellation and subsequent issuance 
of a replacement permit may be completed upon request.  
 
15.  No. 
 
16.  Licences are not transferable.  
 
17.(a) No.  
 
(b)   No. 
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  No. 
 
19.  Import permits issued pursuant to the Export and Import Permits Act  are not a condition of 
foreign exchange transactions.  
 
7.2.8   Clothing  
Outline of system  
1. Clothing is on the Import Control List , established pursuant to the Export and Import Permits Act  
(EIPA). Quantitative restraints (i.e., quotas) on imports of clothing and handbags were eliminated 
for goods shipped after 31 December 2004 in accordance with the WTO Agreement on Textiles and 
Clothing (ATC).  Individual import licen sing or open general licensing requirements for such goods 
were eliminated on 1 April 2005. An import licensing system remains in place for clothing shipped 
in connection with Tariff Preference Level (TPL) provisions established pursuant to the North 
Ameri can, Canada -Chile, Canada -Costa Rica, and Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreements  and for 
origin quotas established pursuant to the Canada -European Union Comprehensive Economic and 
Trade Agreement.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Clothing products on the Import Control List  subject to individual import permits for TPL are as 
follows: wool apparel (NAFTA, Chile); cotton or man -made fibre apparel (NAFTA, Chile); and apparel 
(Costa Rica, Honduras).  Origin quotas established under the Canada -European Union 
Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) include  certain knitted or woven garments 
such as: men's or boys' shirts, ensembles, jackets, blazers, trousers, bib and brace overalls, 
breeches, shorts tracksuits, ski suits, and swimwear; women's or girls' blouses, shirts, t -shirts, 
jerseys, pullovers, cardigans, pantyhose, tights, stockings, socks, overcoats, raincoats, carcoats, 
capes, cloaks, anoraks, windcheaters, wind jackets, suits, ensemble s, jackets, blazers, dresses, 
skirts, divided skirts, trousers, bib and brace overalls, breeches, shorts, brassieres, girdles, corsets, 
braces, suspenders, and garters.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 39 - 
 
  3. The system applies to imports from the United States, Mexico, Chile, Costa Rica, H onduras and 
the European Union or other CETA beneficiaries.  
 
4. Tariff Preference Levels (TPL) are special FTA provisions that provide tariff preferences for imports 
of non -originating textile and apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these speci fied 
quantities, non -originating textile and apparel goods are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate 
of duty. The import licensing system is in place in order to administer quantitative import limits on 
goods shipped in connection with TPL provisions es tablished pursuant to these Free Trade 
Agreements.  
 
Origin quotas are alternative rules of origin that enable preferential tariff access for imports of eligible 
apparel goods up to a specified quantity. Above these specified quantities, apparel goods that do 
not meet the main rules of origin are subject to the Most -Favoured -Nation rate of duty. The import 
licensing system is in place in order to implement quantitative import limits on goods shipped in 
connection with origin quota provisions established purs uant to the CETA.  
 
5. The EIPA provides for the establishment of an Import Control List  to implement an 
intergovernmental arrangement or to prevent the frustration or the circumvention of such 
arrangements.  Import permits are issued for goods, including c lothing, on the Import Control List . 
 
Procedures  
6. The TPL levels primary units of measure are converted into Square Metre Equivalents (SME) by 
means of conversion factors found in each FTA.  The yearly TPL levels for each FTA are as follows:  
 
-  Canada -Honduras Free Trade Agreement – Apparel goods: 4,000,000 SME.  
-  Canada -Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement - Apparel goods: 1,379,570 SME.  
-  Canada -Chile Free Trade Agreement - Cotton or man -made fibre apparel and made -up goods: 
2,252,324 SME; and Woo l apparel and made -up goods: 112,616 SME.  
-  North America Free Trade Agreement - United States: Cotton or man -made fibre apparel and 
made -up goods: 9,000,000 SME; and Wool apparel and made -up goods: 919,740; Mexico: 
Cotton or man -made fibre apparel and ma de-up goods: 6,000,000 SME; and Wool apparel 
and made -up goods: 250,000 SME.  
-  There are no allocations to importers. The TPLs are administered on a first -come, first -served 
basis from 1 January to 31 December each year.  
 
The origin quotas are measured by  units, kilograms, pairs or dozens. The yearly origin quota levels 
are found in Table C.4 of the Protocol on rules of origin and origin procedures of the CETA: 
http://international.gc.ca/trade -commerce/trade -agreements -accords -commerciaux/agr -acc/ceta -
aecg/text -texte/P1.aspx?lang=eng#5_1  
 
- There are no allocations to importers  
- The origin quotas are administ ered on a first -come, first -served basis from 1 January to 
31 December each year.  
 
I.  Information on TPLs and origin quotas and related formalities are published in the Canada 
Gazette, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) D -Memoranda and Customs Notice an d in 
Notices to Importers. This information is available to customs brokers, associations and 
traders and upon request from Global Affairs Canada. Notices to Importers and additional 
information are also available on the Global Affairs Canada and CBSA webs ites at:   
TPL: http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/textiles/index.aspx?menu_id=21&view=d  
 http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
 
Origin Quotas:  http://www.international.gc.ca/controls -controles/prod/ceta_origin_quotas -
contingents_origine_aecg.aspx?lang=eng  
  https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
II.  See the introduction to Section 6.  
 
III. TPL or origin quota not used in one year is not available for carry -over in the following year.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 40 - 
 
  IV.  Applications for TPL permits and origin quotas are accepted un til the TPL or origin quota level 
for a given TPL or origin quota is filled.  
 
V-VII. Import permits are issued through an on -line automated system either (a) in the offices of 
customs brokers in major cities across Canada, or (b) at the Trade Controls Bure au of Global 
Affairs Canada in Ottawa.  Requests for permits are accepted 30 days prior to the expected 
date of arrival of the shipment to Canada.  Import permits are normally issued with a validity 
period of 30 days around the date of arrival specified by  importers (five days prior to and 
24 days after). Utilization of permits for one quota year is not allowed in the next quota year.  
 
VIII.  TPL and origin quotas are  made available on a first -come, first -served basis, whereby import 
permits are issued to i mporters on demand until the TPL or origin quota  has been filled in a 
given year.  
 
IX-X. Not applicable.  
 
XI.  No. 
 
7.(a)  An import permit is required for each shipment of clothing for which a TPL or origin quota 
benefit is sought.  An importer may apply for an import permit up to 30 days prior to the 
expected date of arrival of the associated goods.  
 
(b)  A permit is normally granted immediately upon request.  
 
(c)  See response to 7(a).  
 
(d)  Permit applications are considered by only one organizat ion, the Trade Controls Bureau, Global 
Affairs Canada.  
 
8. Import permits are not normally refused if the criteria relating to issuance are met.  If a permit 
is refused, for example, because of incomplete information on the application, the applicant is 
advised and given the opportunity to correct the application.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9. Any resident of Canada may apply for an import permit.   
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. Instructions and the information required to complete an import permit application and the form 
can be found on the web at:   
 
http://www.internat ional.gc.ca/controls -controles/about -a_propos/impor/permits -
licences.aspx?menu_id=62&view=d  
http://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm -md/d11/d11 -4-22-eng.html  
https://www.cbsa -asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn -ad/cn17 -30-eng.html  
 
11. Import permits and normal customs entry forms are required.  
 
12. Any applicant may directly apply for a permit via customs brokers with access to the Export and 
Import Controls System.  Import permit fees range from CAD$ 10.00 to CAD$ 26.00 (according to 
the value of the goods). This fee does not cover the cost of any  additional services provided by such 
issuers.  Import permits may also be requested, by fax, from Global Affairs Canada  in Ottawa for 
which the associated fees range from CAD$ 15.00 to CAD$ 31.00 (according to the value of the 
goods).  
 
13. No.  
 
Conditions o f licensing  
14. A permit is valid for 30 days. Should the permit expire, the cancellation and subsequent issuance 
of a replacement permit may be completed upon request.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 41 - 
 
  15. No.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  
 
17.(a) No.  
 
(b)  No. 
 
Other procedural req uirements  
18. No.  
 
19. Import permits issued pursuant to the Export and Import Permits Act  are not a condition of 
foreign exchange transactions.  
7.2.9   Carbon and Specialty Steel  
Outline of system  
1. Carbon and specialty steel products are found in items 80, 81 and 82 of the Import Control List , 
established under the  Export and Import Permits Act .  Products under items 80 and 81 are subject 
to general import permits with reporting and record keeping  requirements (i.e., under General 
Import Permits 80 and 81) . 
 
For products under item 82 of the Import Control List , final safeguard measures in the form of tariff 
rate quotas (TRQ) have been established through the Final Safeguards Order (Surtax Order) 
(effective 13 May 2019), amending the Order Imposing a Surtax on the Importation of Certain Steel 
Goods. This amendment replaces the provisional safeguard measures on imports of certain Heavy 
Plate and Stainless Steel Wire with final safeguard measures. The  Surtax Order establishes 
safeguards in the form of TRQs for steel goods matching the product descriptions specified in the 
column 2 of the Schedule to the Surtax Order (see below for descriptions), above which a surtax will 
apply.  
 
Purposes and coverage o f licensing  
2. Carbon steel products were placed on the Import Control Lis t under the authority of 
subsection  5(3) of the Export and Import Permits Act  with effect 1 September 1986, for the purpose 
of monitoring their entry into Canada following a reference to the Canadian Import Tribunal pursuant 
to section 48 of the Special Import Measures Act . The Tribunal concluded that carbon steel products 
were being and likely t o be imported into Canada at such prices, in such quantities and under such 
conditions as to make it advisable to collect information with respect to the importation of such 
goods. Carbon steel products are defined as semi -finished steel (ingots, blooms, b illets, slabs and 
sheet bars), plate, sheet and strip, wire rods, wire and wire products, railway -type products, bars, 
structural shapes and units and pipe and tube.  
 
Specialty steel products were added to the Import Control List  on 1 June 1987, following  an 
amendment to the Export and Import Permits Act , in order for the monitoring system for steel to be 
comprehensive. Specialty steel products are defined as stainless flat -rolled products (sheet, strip 
and plate), stainless steel bar, stainless steel pipe  and tube, stainless steel wire and wire product, 
alloy tool steel, mould steel and high speed steel.  
 
Products subject to General Import Permits 80 and 81 are subject to reporting and record keeping 
requirements as a term and condition of their applicabl e general import permit (effective 
26 August  2019).  
 
TRQs as final safeguards have been established for two product categories within which goods fall if 
they meet the product definitions. The categories are Heavy Plate and Stainless Steel Wire. The 
safegu ards do not apply to imports of steel products that do not meet the  product definitions . Goods 
that are not subject to the Surtax Order may continue to be imported under General Import Permit 
80 or General Import Permit 81, as the case may be.   
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 42 - 
 
  The defini tions are as follows:  
 
Heavy Plate  
Hot-rolled carbon steel plate and high -strength low -alloy steel plate not further manufactured than 
hot-rolled, heat -treated or not, in widths from 80 inches (+/ - 2,030 mm) to 152 inches 
(+/- 3,860  mm), and thicknesses from 0.375 inches (+/ - 9.525 mm) to 4.0 inches (101.6 mm), 
with all dimensions being plus or minus allowable tolerances contained in the applicable standards. 
For greater certainty, these dimensional restrictions apply to steel plate, which con tains alloys 
greater than required by recognized industry standards provided that the steel does not meet 
recognized industry standards for an alloy -specification steel plate.  
 
The definition excludes:  
• a) All plate in coil form, and  
• b) All plate having a r olled, raised figure at regular intervals on the surface (also known as 
floor plate).  
• c) hot -rolled carbon steel plate produced to the following specifications and grades, 
namely, ASME SA516/SA516M or ASTM A516/A516M, normalized, ASME SA299/SA299M 
or ASTM A299/A299M, normalized, and ASME SA537/SA537M or ASTM A537/A537M, 
normalized, in the following dimensions:  
o (i) 2 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and greater than 
473 inches long,  
o (ii) 2 inches thick, greater than or equal to 121 inches wide and greater than 
380 inches long,  
o (iii) 2 inches thick, greater than or equal to 150 inches wide and greater than 
270 inches long,  
o (iv) 2.25 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and greater than 
420 inches long,  
o (v) 2.25 inches thick, greater than or equal to 121 inches wide and greater than 
330 inches long,  
o (vi) 2.25 inches thick, greater than or equal to 151 inches wide and of any length,  
o (vii) 2.5 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and great er than 
380 inches long,  
o (viii) 2.5 inches thick, greater than or equal to 121 inches wide and greater than 
300 inches long,  
o (ix) 2.5 inches thick, greater than or equal to 151 inches wide and of any length,  
o (x) 2.75 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and greater than 
340 inches long,  
o (xi) 2.75 inches thick, greater than or equal to 121 inches wide and of any length,  
o (xii) 3 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and greater than 
250 inches long,  
o (xiii) 3 inches thick, grea ter than or equal to 121 inches wide and of any length,  
o (xiv) 3.25 inches thick, greater than or equal to 97 inches wide and of any length, 
or 
o (xv) greater than or equal to 3.5 inches thick of any width and length . 
• d) hot -rolled carbon steel plate in grade ASME SA516 Grade 70 or ASTM A516 Grade 70, 
normalized in thicknesses greater than or equal to 3.25 inches and widths greater than or 
equal to 97 inches;  
• e) hot -rolled carbon steel plate in grade ASME SA516 Grade 70 or ASTM A516 Grade 70, 
normalized ( heat treated) with a thickness greater than 3.28 inches;  
• f) hot -rolled carbon steel plate manufactured to the following specifications and grades, 
namely,  
o (i) ASME SA285/SA285M or ASTM A285/A285M,  
o (ii) ASME SA299/SA299M or ASTM A299/A299M,  
o (iii) ASME SA515 /SA515M or ASTM A515/A515M,  
o (iv) ASME SA516/SA516M or ASTM A516/A516M (including, but not limited to, 
SA/A516 Grade 70),  
o (v) ASME SA537/SA537M or ASTM A537/A537M, or  
o (vi) ASME SA841/SA841M or ASTM A841/A841M,  
 
which is normalized (heat treated) and/or vacuum degassed (including while molten) 
with a sulphur content less than 0.005 % and a phosphorus content less than or 
equal to 0.017 %, imported exclusively for use in the manufacture of pressure G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 43 - 
 
  vessels for the oil and gas sector for use in sour service and hydrogen -induced 
cracking applications;  
• g) high -strength low -alloy structural steel plate in grade ASTM A1066/A1066M, produced by 
thermo -mechanical controlled process;  
• h) hot -rolled carbon steel plate for use in the manufacture of oil and gas line pipe (also 
known as skelp); and  
• i) hot -rolled carbon steel plate in grades API 5L X70 PSL2 or CSA Grade 483 Category II for 
use in the manufacture of oil and gas line pipe.  
 
Stainless Steel Wire  
Cold drawn and cold drawn and annealed, stainless steel round wire, up to 0.256 inches (6.50 mm) 
in maximum solid cross -sectional dimension; and cold drawn and cold drawn and annealed, stainless 
steel cold -rolled profile wire, up to 0.031 square inches (0.787 sq. mm) in maximum solid 
cross-sectional area.  
 
439 copper -coated TiCu stainless steel wire in diameters of 0.030 inch to 0.187 inch is excluded.  
 
3.  The monitoring system applies to carbon and specialty steel imports from all countries. The final 
safeguards apply t o steel goods imported from all countries other than those originating in:  
 
- Canada;  
- Chile;  
- Colombia;  
- Israel or another CIFTA beneficiary;  
- Republic of Korea;  
- Mexico;  
- Panama;  
- Peru;  
- the United States; and  
- a World Trade Organization Member country benefiting from the General Preferential Tariff 
(GPT) as long as its share of importation of the goods of the class in question does not 
exceed 3% of the total importation of goods of that class, provided that the importation of 
goods of that class from al l such countries with less than 3% import share does not 
collectively account for more than 9% of the total importation of the goods of that class.  
 
Countries benefiting from the GPT are as follows:  
 
Afghanistan; Anguilla; Angola; Armenia; Ascension Island; Bangladesh; Belize; Benin; 
Bhutan;  Bolivia; British Indian Ocean Territory; Burkina Faso;  Cambodia;  Cameroon; Cape Verde; 
Central African Republic;  Chad;  Christmas Island; Cocos (Keeling) Islands; Comoros; Congo; Cook 
Islands; Côte d’Ivoi re; Democratic Republic of the Congo;  Djibouti;  Egypt; El Salvador; 
Eritrea;  Ethiopia;  Falkland Islands; Fiji; Gambia;  Georgia; Ghana; Guatemala; Guinea; Guinea -
Bissau; Guyana; Haiti;  Honduras; Iraq; Kenya; Kiribati; Kyrgyzstan; Laos; Lesotho; Liberia; 
Madagascar; Malawi;  Mali; Marshall Islands; Mauritania; Micronesia; Moldova; Mongolia; 
Montserrat; Morocco; Mozambique; Nauru; Nepal;  Nicaragua; Niger; Nigeria; Niue; Norfolk Island; 
North Africa, Spanish; Pakistan; Papua New Guinea; Paraguay; Philippines; Pi tcairn; Rwanda; Saint 
Helena and Dependencies; Samoa;  Sao Tome and Principe; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Solomon 
Islands; Somalia; Southern and Antarctic Territories, French; Sri Lanka; Sudan; Swaziland; Syria; 
Tajikistan; Tanzania; Timor -Leste; Togo; Tokelau I slands; Tonga; Tristan Da Cunha; Turkmenistan; 
Tuvalu; Uganda; Ukraine; Uzbekistan; Vanuatu; Viet  Nam; Virgin Islands, British; Yemen; Zambia; 
Zimbabwe.  
 
4.  The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports: it is intended to moni tor 
the volume and the origin of carbon and specialty steel products.  
 
The final safeguards are intended to prevent diversion of foreign steel products into Canada by 
means of restrictions on quantity, while ensuring consistency with WTO rules.  
 
5.  The a ction of placing carbon and specialty steel products on the Import Control List  was taken 
under the authority of section 5.1 and section 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 44 - 
 
  The final safeguards in the form of TRQs are effected by means of amendments t o the Order 
Imposing a Surtax on the Importation of Certain Steel Goods . The Surtax Order establishes final 
safeguards in the form of TRQs for steel goods matching the product descriptions specified in the 
column 2 of the Schedule to the Surtax Order above  which a surtax will apply.  
 
Whether a product meets the description found in the Surtax Order (i.e., applicable to goods subject 
to final safeguards) is determined by the importer and may be subject to confirmation by the Canada 
Border Services Agency.  
 
The Governor in Council may repeal or amend the Import Control List . 
 
Procedures  
6.  I. All relevant information regarding safeguarded products is published on the website of Global 
Affairs Canada, specifically by means of Notice to Importers No. 945: Item 82 – Steel Goods.  
 
II. The quotas for final safeguards are administered in the following phases:  
• 13 May 2019 to 2 June 2019: The TRQs were administered on a first -come, first -served 
basis. Importers were invited to submit applications for allocations durin g this period.  
• 3 June 2019 to 31 January 2020: The TRQ are administered on an allocated basis, based on 
the methodology set out in the Notice to Importers No. 945: Item 82 – Steel Goods; the 
quantity of goods that may be imported under each TRQ is as follows: for stainless steel 
wire, 1,866,667 kg; for heavy plate, 66,666,667 kg; this quantity is equal to the prorated 
TRQ for the first period as set out in the Schedule to the Surtax Order.  
• 1 February 2020 to 24 October 2021: The Government’s approach t o TRQ administration 
will be informed by public consultations.  
 
III. Any resident of Canada may apply or use an import permit. Permits are verified against use by 
means of data provided by the Canada Border Services Agency. Unused quota is added to succeed ing 
periods. Names of importers who use or are issued permits are not provided to third parties.  
 
IV. Applications for quota allocations were accepted by Global Affairs Canada between 10 May 2019 
and 24 May 2019 to be used for the period between 3 June 2019 and 31 January 2020. The 
Government’s approach for TRQ administration for the period from 1 February 2020 to 
24 October  2021 will be informed by public consultations.  
 
V. Applications may be automatically accepted by the electronic system and thereby be accepted 
instantaneously. Conversely, applications may remain in queue indefinitely if quota has been fully 
utilized for a period.  
 
VI. Applications may be submitted, and if all is correct, be accepted five days prior to a shipment’s 
arrival.  
 
VII. Consideration of licence applications are effected by Global Affairs Canada.  
 
VIII.  The quota volumes for final safeguards between 3 June 2019 to 31 January 2020  is divided 
into two pools: an allocation pool, available for eligible applicants based on their import history 
during the reference period, and a residual pool, available on a first -come, first served basis to those 
who do not hold allocations. The allocation pool constitutes of importers that accounted for at least 
0.5% of import share during the 12 -month reference period from 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018.  
 
IX. N/A  
 
X. N/A  
 
XI. No.  
 
7. N/A 
 
8.  For general permits, none. For the final safeguards: if there is insufficient quota remaining during 
the given quota period. Reasons for the refusal are given to the applicant. There is no right of appeal.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 45 - 
 
  Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Any resident of Canada may use the General Import Permits or apply for individual permits for 
goods subject to safeguards . 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. For final safeguards: Information including name of supplier and applicant; country of origin and 
export; entry and exit port;  commodity details (including price, quantity and value); and shipment 
date and entry date.  
 
11. Customs entry forms.  
 
12. The fees for individual import permits are as follows:  
 
If the individual permit is delivered by a person who is not employed in the public service of Canada 
but who is authorized to deliver the permit, for goods valued at less than CAD$1000, CAD$10; 
CAD$1000 or more but less than CAD$5000, CAD$14; CAD$5000 or more but less than 
CAD$10,000, CAD$18; CAD$10,000 or more but less than CAD$20,000, CAD$22; CAD$20,000 and 
over, CAD$26. 
 
If the individual permit is delivered by the Export and Import Controls Bureau of Global Affairs 
Canada, for goods valued at less than CAD$1000, CAD$15; CAD$1000 or more but less than 
CAD$5000, CAD$19; CAD$5000 or more but less than CAD$10,000, CAD$23; CAD$10,000 or more 
but less than CAD$20,000, CAD$27; CAD$20,000 and over, CAD$31. 
 
13.  No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. For General Import Permits,  the appropriate General Import Permit number must be stated 
on the customs entry document . For individual permits issued with respect to the steel safeguards: 
the period of validity is 30 days; there is no penalty for non -utilization; licenses are 
non-transferrable.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. No.  
 
7.2.10   Aluminum  
Outline of system  
1. Aluminum products are found in item 83 of the Import Control List , established under the  Export 
and Import Permits Act .  Products under item 83 are subject to a general import permit with 
reporting and record keeping requirements (i.e., General Import P ermit 83) . 
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. Aluminum products were placed on the Import Control Lis t under the authority of 
subsection  5(1)(e) and section 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act  (effective 1 September 2019) 
for the purpose of implemen ting an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment, that is the Joint 
Statement by Canada and the United State on section 232 Duties on Steel and Aluminum. Aluminum 
products are defined as: alloyed and not alloyed unwrought aluminum products, and wrought 
aluminum products limited to bars, rods, profiles, wires, plates, sheets, strips, foils, tubes and pipes, 
tube and pipe fittings and other articles of castings and forgings.  
 
3.  The monitoring system applies to certain aluminum imports from all countries .  
 
4.  The general import permit for aluminum is intended to monitor the volume and the origin of 
certain aluminum products.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 46 - 
 
  5.  The action of placing aluminum products on the Import Control List  was taken under the authority 
of subsection 5(1)(e) and sec tion 6 of the Export and Import Permits Act . 
 
Whether a product meets the description found in the general import permit is determined by the 
importer and may be subject to confirmation by the Canada Border Services Agency.  
 
The Governor in Council may rep eal or amend the Import Control List . 
 
Procedures  
6. I.  No quotas are administered for aluminum products. All relevant information is published on 
the website of Global Affairs Canada, specifically by means of Notice to Importers No. 969: 
Item 83 – Aluminum Products.  
 
II.  No quotas are administered under General Import Permit 83 for Aluminum Products . 
 
III.  N/A 
 
IV.  N/A 
 
V.  N/A 
 
VI.  N/A 
 
VII.  N/A 
 
VIII.  N/A 
 
IX.  N/A 
 
X.  N/A 
 
XI.  No. 
 
7.  N/A 
 
8.   N/A 
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Any resident of Canada may use the General Import Permit.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10. N/A 
 
11. Customs entry forms.  
 
12. No.  
 
13.  No. 
 
Conditions of licensing  
14.-17. The General Import Permit nu mber must be stated on the customs entry document.   
 
Other procedural requirements  
18-19. No.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 47 - 
 
  8  PLANT PROTECTION ACT  
Note: The Centre of Administration of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency delivers and coordinates 
the full range of operational administrat ive services required for import related permissions under 
this section ( http://inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/permits -licences -and-
appro vals/eng/1395348112901/1395348237219 ).  All permit applications are sent to the Centre of 
Administration, Regulatory Permissions and Registration Division, National Service Centres 
Directorate of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  
 
Outline of system  
1.  A permit to import outlines phytosanitary conditions which must be met prior to export from the 
country of origin, during export and upon arrival in Canada. These conditions are required to prevent 
the introduction or spread within Canada of pla nt pests.  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2.  In accordance with Section 31 of the Plant Protection Regulations  and pursuant to the Plant 
Protection Act , a prospective importer must apply in writing for an import permit.  According to 
section 32 and se ction 43 of the Plant Protection Regulations , the Minister of Agriculture and 
Agri-Food, on the basis of a pest risk assessment, may issue a permit for the importation of a thing 
that is either a plant pest, constitutes or could constitute a biological obs tacle to the control of a 
plant pest or is/could be infested with either a plant pest or a biological obstacle to the control of a 
plant pest if, the Minister determines that every precaution necessary can and will be taken to 
prevent the introduction into  Canada or the establishment and spread within Canada of a plant pest 
or biological obstacle to the control of a plant pest.  
 
3.  The system applies to plant pest (e.g., disease cultures, insects), plants and plant products and 
any other article whose importation into Canada is regulated under the Plant Protection Act  and 
Regulations from all countries.  
 
4.  The permit system is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports.  The purpose of 
the import permit system is to ensure that plant pest, plants and plant products and other articles 
regulated under the Plant Protection Act  and Regulations imported in Canada confo rm to Canada's 
plant protection phytosanitary import requirements. The permit system protects against the 
introduction into and spread in Canada of pests injurious to plants.  
 
5.  The permit system is legislated and regulated under the Plant Protection Act  and the Plant 
Protection Regulations . The permit system is statutorily required. The determination that a product 
needs a permit is based on the assessment of the phytosanitary pest risk it poses. Lastly, it is not 
possible for the government to abolish t he system without a regulatory amendment.  
 
Procedures  
6.  There are no quantitative or value limits on the importation of products from other countries.  
 
7.(a) An importer must obtain a valid import permit prior to importation.  Written permit 
applications  may be mailed/e -mailed or faxed to the Licensing, Permitting and Registration 
Division, National Inspection and Investigation Services Directorate  of the Canadian Food 
Inspection Agency (CFIA). Once all required information has been received and a review of 
the permit application form has been completed, the CFIA will endeavour to issue a Permit to 
Import between five to ten business days (subject to change).  
 
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency will not issue an import permit for regulated 
commodities tha t have already arrived in Canada.  This is because an import permit is not 
retroactive.  
 
(b)  No.  An application cannot be granted immediately upon request as it must be subject to a 
pest risk review.  
 
(c)  No, there are no limitations as to the period of  the year in which an application for a permit 
to import can be submitted.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  (d)  Yes.  All applications for a permit to import are sent to and approved by one administrative 
body. All applications are sent to the Licensing, Permitting and Registration Divis ion, National 
Inspection and Investigation Services Directorate of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. 
However, some commodities may be regulated by other governments departments and may 
be subjected to other requirements.  
 
8.  The plant protection import  permit may be refused on the grounds that the plants, plant products 
or other matter intended for importation will result or is likely to result in the introduction into 
Canada of a plant pest.  A permit can also be refused or revoked if a person has cont ravened the 
Act and/or Regulations.  The importer is advised of the refusal or revocation.  The Plant Protection 
Act or Plant Protection Regulations  do not prescribe an appeal procedure in cases where a permit is 
refused or revoked.  
 
Eligibility of importe rs to apply for licence  
9. An applicant for a Permit to Import must be one of the following: 1) a Canadian citizen or 
permanent resident; 2) a person authorized under the laws of Canada to reside in Canada for a 
period of six months or more and who will ha ve possession, care or control of the thing to be 
imported; or 3) in the case of a corporation with a place of business in Canada, the applicant must 
be an agent or officer of the corporation who resides in Canada.  
 
Note:  The CFIA will not accept applicati ons for Permits to Import submitted by Brokerage Firms on 
behalf of their clients. The actual Canadian importer (person/company) must submit the application.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a permit to import  
10.  An application for a permit shall be in writing, signed and dated by the person applying for the 
permit and contain the following information:  
 
(a)  The name, complete address and telephone number of the person;  
 
(b)  The name, complete address and telephone number of the owner of the thing to be imported, 
if different from paragraph (a);  
 
(c)  The name and complete address of the exporter;  
 
(d)  A description and the common and scientific names of the thing;  
 
(e)  The quantity of the thing;  
 
(f)  The purpose for which the thing is to be admitted into Canada;  
 
(g)  The place of entry and the location of the place of destination of the thing in Canada;  
 
(h)  The country and place where the thing was propagated or produced, and the country and 
place from which it  was shipped to Canada;  
 
(i)  The number of packages, if sent by mail or courier service; and  
 
(j)  Any other information respecting any activity undertaken in respect of the thing, or the 
precautions that will be taken to prevent the spreading of any pest  or biological obstacle to 
the control of a pest while the thing is transported, as the Minister may require.  
 
11. The documents (e.g., phytosanitary certificate, certificate of inspection, certificate of treatment, 
certificate of origin, affidavit, etc.) specified on the permit are required at the time of importation.  
 
12.  Fees for each permit application can range between CAD$ 15 and CAD$ 250, depending on the 
reason for importation and the need for a pest risk assessment.  
 
13.  There is no deposit or adva nce payment that is required or associated with the issuance of a 
permit. However, full payment is required before a permit can be issued.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  Conditions of permit  
14. Permits to import are valid for the period of time specified on the permit. The permit to import 
is valid for multiple shipments and unlimited quantities unless otherwise specified. Permits to import 
issued to persons travelling or collecting will be valid for no more than one year.  When a permit has 
expired, it is the responsibility  of the importer to apply for a new permit.  
 
15.  There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a permit or a portion of a permit.  
 
16.  Import permits are not transferable between importers.  
 
17.  The issuance of an import permit is only subject to the p rovisions of the Plant Protection Act  
and Regulations.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Generally, there are no other administrative procedures apart from the import permit application 
procedures.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
9  HEALTH OF ANIMALS ACT  
Note: The Centre of Administration of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency delivers and   
coordinates the full range of operational administrative services required for import related 
permissions under this section ( http://inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/permits -licences -and-
approvals/eng/1395348112901/1395348237219 ). All permit applications are sent to the Centre of 
Administration, Regulatory Perm issions and Registration Division, National Service Centres 
Directorate of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.  
 
Under the Health of Animals Act and the Health of Animals Regulations, along with the associated 
import reference documents for terrestrial ani mal health, the importation of live terrestrial and 
aquatic animals, animal and aquatic animal products, animal by -products, aquatic animal carcases, 
animal pathogens, and other things (such as used equipment) are allowed under certain conditions. 
Imports are permitted from countries that have negotiated export market access with Canada and 
comply with the negotiated animal health conditions.  
 
In addition, the importers of animals or their products or by -products are obligated to ensure 
compliance with the  requirements of all CFIA policies and directives that fall under the pertinent 
legislative authority by animal or commodity, such as the Safe Food for Canadians Act  and the Safe 
Food for Canadians Regulations , the Feeds Regulations , and the Fertilizers Ac t and the Fertilizers 
Regulations . 
 
Animal products and by -products used in the preparation of food, cosmetics, drugs (including 
pharmaceuticals for use in animals, pharmaceuticals and biologics for human use, and natural health 
products for use in animals  or humans), and medical devices are also regulated by Health Canada 
through product -specific regulatory programs. For these products, the regulatory requirements for 
animal products and by -products are administered by the CFIA under the authority of the F ood and 
Drugs Act and the Food and Drug Regulations. Veterinary biologics and their components are 
regulated by the CFIA under the Health of Animals Act and the Health of Animals Regulations. 
Importers must comply with the import requirements of all Canadi an government departments or 
agencies for a particular commodity.  
 
Outline of system  
1. For  terrestrial live animals: importation from countries other than the U.S., a permit is required 
for all animals (except pet dogs and domesticated cats, certain roden ts, reptiles excluding turtles 
and their eggs, amphibians and marine mammals), semen (except canine), embryos, veterinary 
biologics, and certain animal products and by -products depending on the species and country of 
origin. For importation from the U.S., a permit is required for the following: semen (except for equine 
and canine), embryos, veterinary biologics, psittacine birds (other than pet birds), turtles, tortoises, 
skunks, foxes and raccoons, some ruminants and swine, elephants, honeybees, dogs under  8 months G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  of age (commercial shipments and for research) certain rodents, and certain other animal products 
and by -products dependent on species. In response to changes in health status, import requirements 
can change at any time.  
 
For animal products and by -products the conditions for import vary by the risk posed by the 
commodity, the processing, end use and origin. The importer may be required to obtain an import 
permit, and zoosanitary certification endorsed by the exporting coun try may be required. To verify 
import conditions for terrestrial animal products and by products, please check with published import 
policies at http://www.inspection.gc.ca/animals/terrestrial -animals/imports/policies/animal -
products -and-by-products/eng/1320833457085/1320851008731 .  
 
For importation of aquatic animals (finfish, molluscs and crustaceans) and  their products listed in 
the Health of Animals Regulations as susceptible to the diseases of concern, a permit and a 
zoosanitary certificate is required. For importation of aquatic animals (finfish, molluscs and 
crustaceans) and their products from shared  waters within the U.S. which have been established as 
having the same health status for specific diseases of concern and are intended for specific end uses 
such as those for human consumption end uses (Food Service, Retail Use and Further Processing), 
only an import permit may be required. Import permits are not required for aquatic animals not 
considered susceptible to diseases of concern and for products that are considered safe in accordance 
with international standards of the OIE or as a result of a ri sk assessment.  
 
For the most up to date information and additional details on CFIA import requirements, please refer 
to the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) at:  
http://www.inspect ion.gc.ca/english/imp/airse.shtml  
 
Purpose and coverage of licensing  
2. See No.1 above.  
 
3. For terrestrial animals (both live animals and products/by -products) : Imports are permitted only 
from countries which are recognized by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as free of serious 
animal diseases which may affect the species of animal imported. However, certain animal products 
may be imported from countries that  are not free of these diseases under an import permit if they 
have been treated or processed to eliminate the disease.    Imports may also be restricted on behalf 
of other government agencies when there is concern about a disease which may be transmitted t o 
people.    
 
For aquatic animals: Imports are permitted only from countries with which a zoosanitary certificate 
has been negotiated based on an evaluation of their aquatic animal health regulatory system. 
Imports of aquatic animals and their products may be permitted without a zoosanitary certificate 
only from shared waters with the US that have been established as having the same health status 
for diseases of concern and are intended for certain end uses.  
 
4. The permit system is intended to ensure that a ll items identified in No.1 are imported in conformity 
with Canada's sanitary health regulations to protect against the introduction of diseases into or 
spread within Canada. Decisions are made following a risk analysis and risk assessment process.  
 
5. The  Health of Animals Act and Regulations  thereunder. Goods, products and animals requiring 
permits are specified (see No.1). There is no authority to waive regulations.  
 
Procedures  
6. There is provision for the importation of certain food products to a maxim um amount for sample 
purposes only under approved conditions.  
 
7.(a) In the case of live animals, animal semen, animal by -products, aquatic animals and their 
products an import permit must be issued prior to the importation and the permit describes 
the con ditions of importation as it relates to health certification and in certain cases, post -
import conditions that must be satisfied once the terrestrial or aquatic animal or product 
arrives in Canada. On arrival at the port of entry in Canada:  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  (i) animals, i ncluding aquatic animals may be subject to veterinary inspection, as 
applicable, and the accompanying permit and health certification (if required) are 
inspected to assure that import requirements are met; and  
(ii)  in the case of aquatic and terrestrial a nimals, semen and animal by -products and 
aquatic animal products, the permit and health certification are checked; product 
inspection may occur at designated receiving centres inland;  
(iii)  some aquatic and terrestrial animals require post -import quaranti ne; 
(iv)  some aquatic and terrestrial animals require post -import testing (in quarantine); and  
(v)  ornamental aquatic animals may be required to be imported to designated premises.  
 
In the case of veterinary biologics, production outlines and data to support purity, safety, 
potency and efficacy for each product must be submitted and approved prior to the issuance 
of the permit. They are examined and reviewed to assure the product is safe, free from 
contaminants and that the label meets all requirements . 
 
(b)   In most cases where permit conditions exist, a permit can be issued within five working days.  
 
(c)   No. 
 
(d)   Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), except for Convention on International Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CIT ES)-listed species which require an additional 
permit from Environment Canada. Other federal domestic requirements for introduction of 
aquatic animals into natural waters under Fisheries and Oceans Canada may also apply.  
 
8.  The CFIA can refuse to issue i mport permits on some occasions. Examples of these are:  
 
(a)   When the disease status of a country does not meet minimum criteria, a permit will not be 
issued.  
 
(b)   When a country does not have a satisfactory disease diagnosis capability or disease cont rol 
organization, a permit may not be issued.  
 
(c)  Dependent on the departmental mandate for a particular commodity or risk factor/hazard, 
CFIA consults with either Health Canada, or Public Health Agency of Canada, with regard to 
zoonoses or communicable diseases common to humans and animals or in the case of aquatic 
animals, Fisheries and Oceans Canada with respect to introduction into natural waters.  
 
(d)  Commercial importers of veterinary biologics must be approved by the foreign company 
manufacturing the products and also must have acceptable facilities and procedures to meet 
the CFIA's import conditions, such as maintaining the cold chain and reporting adverse events.  
 
Eligibility of importers to apply for permit to import  
9. Any resident of Canada or company registered in Canada who has the necessary qualifications 
and facilities to satisfy the import permit conditions.  
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for a permit to import  
10. Application must be made electronically o r in writing using the appropriate application form, and 
must specify the species, quantities, date of arrival, country of origin and purposes of import. For 
aquatic animals, Part XVI of the  Health of Animals Regulations  requires specific species listed in  
Schedule III to have an import permit. All aquatic animals must meet the requirements of 
Section  194 which includes name and address of the import exporter, taxonomic name, 
quantity/number and the location where the animal was born.  
 
11. In addition to the permit to import animals, animal by -products, aquatic animals and their 
products and the normal customs documentation, a zoosanitary certificate of health issued by the 
Competent Authority or Veterinary Services of the country of ori gin must normally accompany the 
shipment. Some exceptions exist for aquatic animals and their products. A customs document is also 
needed. For terrestrial animals, some form of animal identification is normally required. Please 
consult the Automated Import  Reference System for additional information on import requirements.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  12. Yes. See CFIA Fees notice at:  http://www.inspection.gc.ca/ about -the-cfia/acts -and-
regulations/fees -notice/eng/1307222845373/1307222984162 . 
 
13. Yes, payments are requested at the time of submitting the application.  
 
Conditions of permit  
14. Will often vary depending on the commodity and the purpose of the importa tion. It varies from 
single entry shipment to multiple shipments over a one -year period. A single -entry permit is 
generally valid for 3 months.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17. See No. 6.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Pre -import quarantine and testing may be r equired.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
10  SAFE FOOD FOR CANADI ANS ACT  
Outline of system  
1.  The importation into Canada of food for human consumption is subject to licensing under the 
Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations , which are administered by the Canadian Food 
Inspection Agency. Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations , Canadian food businesses that 
conduct any of the following activities are required to obtain a licence:  
• import food ; 
• manufacture, process, treat, preserve, grade, package, or label food to be exported or sent 
across provincial or territorial b orders ; 
• export food that requires an export certificate  – even if not preparing the food ; 
• slaughter food animals from which meat products are derived for export or to be sent across 
provincial or territorial borders ; 
• store and handle a meat product in its imported condition for inspection by the Canadian 
Food Inspection Agency.  
Import licensing under the Safe Food for Canadians Act and Regulations does not apply to:  
 
• food additives ; 
• alcoholic beverages (beverage that contains more than 0.5% absolute ethyl alcohol by 
volume) ; 
• unprocessed food listed in Schedule 1 of the SFCR if it:  
o will be manufactured, processed or treated for use as grain, oil, pulse, sugar or 
beverage;  
o has a label applied or attached to it, or accompanying it, that bears the expression 
"For Further Preparation Only" or "pour conditionnement ultérieur seulement", and  
o is not a consumer prepackaged food.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.   Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations , the import licensing will apply to all imported 
food other than food additives, beverages that contain more than 0.5% absolute ethyl alcohol by 
volume and foods used as a grain, oil, pulse, sugar or beverage (listed in Schedule 1 of the 
regulations) that meet specific conditions specified in section 11 of t he regulations. To learn more 
about the requirements please visit 
http://inspection.gc.ca/food/sfcr/imports/eng/1526656151226/1526656151476 . G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  3. The licensing system a pplies to food from all countries. See the Safe Food for Canadians 
Regulations  for exceptions. Other non -quantitative restrictions exist for the import of certain species. 
For example, the importation of live freshwater mitten crab (genus Eriocheir ) or puffer fish (family 
Tetraodontidae ) is not permitted under the Safe Food for Cana dians Regulations .  
 
4.  The licensing is not intended to restrict the quantity or value of imports. Licensing will help the 
CFIA to:  
• better identify food safety risks in order to target inspections ; 
• communicate important food safety information directly to food businesses ; 
• take enforcement actions, ranging from requiring corrective measures to suspending or 
cancelling a licence, when regulatory requirements are not met.  
Importers must ensure they and the food they import meet all the applicable r egulatory 
requirements.   
 
5.  The licensing of importers is legislated and regulated under the Safe Food for Canadians Act and 
Regulations .  Licensing is statutorily required (see Safe Food for Canadians Regulations ). There is 
no administrative discretion with respect to the products subject to licensing. Legislative approval 
would be required in order to abolish elements of the import system described in the Safe Food for 
Canadians Regulations .  
 
Any person or organization who wishes to import food into Ca nada for sale or distribution for human 
consumption, must first obtain an import licence from the CFIA via the MyCFIA application.  
 
To be issued a licence, importers must have a place of business in Canada or in a country that has 
been recognized by the CF IA in accordance with section 12 of the Safe Food for Canadians 
Regulations.  
 
 The provisions of the SFCA and SFCR do not apply to food in the following cases:  
• food for personal use, when the food is not intended for commercial use ; and 
o the quantity of fo od is equal to or under the maximum quantity limits, found in the 
document “Maximum Quantity Limits for Personal Use” 
(http://inspection.gc.ca/about -the-cfia/acts -and-regulations/list -of-acts-and-
regulations/documents -incorporated -by-reference/personal -use-
exemption/eng/1520439688578/1520439689098 ); and  
o the food is imported , exported , sent or conveyed from one province to another  by 
an individual other than in the course of business; or  
o the food is imported or exported as part of the personal effects of an immigrant or 
emigrant  
• food that is carried on any  conveyance  that is intended for the crew or passengers ; 
• food that is intended and used for analysis, evaluation, research, or a trade show provided 
that the food is part of a shipment that weighs 100 kg or less or, in the case of eggs, is part 
of a shipme nt of five or fewer cases ; 
• food that is not intended or sold for human consumption ; 
• food that is imported from the United States onto the Akwesasne Reserve by a permanent 
resident of the Reserve for their use ; 
• food that is imported in bond (in transit) for  use by crew or passengers of a cruise ship or 
military ship in Canada;  
• food that is traded between federal penitentiaries ; 
• transporting a food commodity , if that is the sole activity of a person.  
Procedures  
6.  There are no restrictions under the SFCR regarding the quantity or value of food imports.  
 
7.   
 
(a)  A person must apply for a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence to import in advance of 
declaring their shipment to the Canada Border Services Agency and the CFIA. The CFIA may 
issue a licence im mediately on application or the CFIA may conduct an assessment prior to G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
- 54 - 
 
  issuing the licence to verify that the conditions specified in section 29 of the regulations are 
met. Goods arriving at a port of entry without an SFC licence will not be permitted ent ry into 
Canada.  
 
(b)  See response to part (a).  
 
(c)  There are no limitations regarding the time of year during which an application can be made.  
 
(d)  The application for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence is submitted solely through the My CFIA 
portal. The Centre of Administration of the CFIA delivers and coordinates the full range of 
operational administrative services required for import related permissions; it is a 
"single -window" process.  
 
8.  Under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations  (SFCR), th ere are certain conditions that must 
be met in order for a Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence to be issued. The  list of conditions for 
issuance, renewal or amendment of an import licence is found in section 29. As part of these 
conditions, the CFIA cann ot issue a licence to a person who is in default of payment of any fee 
related to the Safe Food for Canadians Act  that is fixed under the Canadian Food Inspection Agency 
Act. Additionally, a licence cannot be issued where the CFIA is of the opinion that th e issuance of a 
licence would present a risk of injury to human health.  
 
The CFIA may also decide not to issue a SFC licence if, in the 5 years prior to the date of the licence 
application, the applicant (or any of their directors or operators) has had a licence suspended or 
cancelled or has been convicted of an offense under t he Safe Food for Canadians Act  or the Food 
and Drugs Act .  
 
The reasons for not issuing a licence are available from CFIA’s Centre of Administration.  
 
In the event of a refusal, applicants can appeal the decision by submitting a complaint or appeal 
throug h CFIA’s complaints and appeals process. More information, including the appeals process, is 
available on CFIA’s Complaints and  Appeals  webpage.  
    
Eligibility of importers to apply for licence  
9.  Any person or company is eligible to apply for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence. To be issued a 
licence, importers must have a place of business in Canada or in a country that has bee n recognized 
by the CFIA in accordance with section 12 of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations.   
 
Documentation and other requirements for application for licence  
10. To apply for an import licence, the applicant must first create an account and business profile 
on the My CFIA portal. All information needed is listed on the Before you sign up for My CFIA  
webpage. Information required includes: business number, legal business name, proof of authority 
form, office address, mailing address and CFIA billing account number where they have one.  
 
After signing u p for the My CFIA account, the applicant can consult the Webpage “What to consider 
before applying for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence”: http://inspection.gc.ca/food/sfcr/general -
food-requirements -and-guidance/licensing/obtain -a-
licence/eng/1543359915240/1543360663242#step3 . Applicants will find all the information and the 
fees that they have to sub mit in order to get a licence.  
 
 
11. The import licence holder must provide information on each import shipment, including their 
Safe Food for Canadians licence number through the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration 
(SW IID). The information that must be provided is listed in section 13 of the Safe Food for Canadians 
Regulations. The information must be provided at the time of or prior to import.   
 
12.  The fee for a Safe Food for Canadians Licence is CAD$ 250. Depending on the food commodity 
additional fees related to import may apply. See the CFIA’s Fees Notice  for more information.  
 
13.  The licensing fee of CAD$ 250 must be paid in order for a Safe Food for Canadians licence to be 
issued. There is no other deposit or advance payment required for the issuance of a licence.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  Conditions of licensing  
14.  A Safe Food f or Canadians Licence is valid for 2 years from the date of issuance.  The period of 
validity of a licence can only be extended by renewing the licence prior to expiry. Licences are 
renewed through the My CFIA portal. Licence holders must update their licen ce information and pay 
the CAD$ 250 fee to renew their licence.  
 
15.  There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a Safe Food for Canadians licence.  
 
16.  Licences are not transferable between persons or businesses.  
 
17.  Other conditions attached to the issue of a licence:  
 
(a)   Not applicable.  
 
(b)   All conditions attached to the issuance of a Safe Food for Canadians licence are specified under 
section 29 of the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations . Licence applica nts must meet all 
applicable requirements of the SFCR, including, in most cases, putting in place preventive food 
safety controls and documenting these controls in a written Preventive Control Plan.  Import 
licence holders must also maintain procedures and  processes for handling and investigating 
complaints and recalls.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18.  Certain products might have additional requirements related to plant protection or animal health 
under other legislation. Apart from this and the procedu res provided for in the Safe Food for 
Canadians Regulations , including requirements associated with inspections, record keeping and 
declaration of import shipments, no additional administrative procedures are required.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
11  WILD ANIMAL AND PLANT PRO TECTION AND REGULATI ON OF INTERNATIONAL AND 
INTERPROVINCIAL TRAD E ACT  
Outline of system  
1. The Wild Animal and Plant Trade Regulations  (WAPTR) contains three Schedules; two of these 
Schedules (Schedule I and II) list species that and ar e subject to licensing requirements. Schedule 
I lists species that are listed in one of the three Appendices to the Convention on International Trade 
in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Canada is a Party. Schedule II of 
WAPTR li sts species which may be harmful to Canadian ecosystems if ever released into the wild. In 
the case of both Schedule I and Schedule II of WAPTR, trade controls apply to live specimens as 
well as parts and derivative products. WAPTR is established under the  Wild Animal and Plant 
Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act  (WAPPRIITA).  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2.  The purpose of this coverage is:  
 
(a) to place a strict controls on trade in specimens of species classifie d as endangered or harmful 
to Canadian ecosystems;  
(b)  to establish a system of trade controls to monitor trade of species that are endangered or 
species that are susceptible to becoming endangered as a result of international trade; and  
 
(c)  to allow in dividual countries to exercise surveillance on importation in other countries 
specimens of species which are considered endangered by the exporting country only.  
 
3.  The system applies to specimens of endangered species (listed on Schedule I of WAPTR), or  
species harmful to Canadian ecosystems (listed on Schedule II of WAPTR), originating in and 
exported from all countries.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  4.  The purpose of the licensing system is to allow importation of: i) in the case of species listed in 
Schedule I of WAPTR, specimen s of endangered species in internationally agreed circumstances and; 
ii) in the case of species listed in Schedule II of WAPTR, where there are sufficient safeguards and 
security to prevent harm to Canadian ecosystems.  
 
5. Licensing is effected by the WAPT R made under the WAPPRIITA. Individual products are not 
designated in the Act. Species are placed in Schedule I of the WAPTR, established by the Governor -
in-Council to implement an intergovernmental arrangement or commitment (see No. 1 above). In 
addition , species which may be harmful to Canadian ecosystems if ever released into the wild, are 
listed in Schedule II of WAPTR and are also subject to licensing requirements.  
 
Procedures  
6.I.  Information on how to comply with the requirements of these controls is published in the 
Canada Gazette, on the Canada.ca website, in press releases and in Notices to Importers 
distributed to associations and traders and, in addition, available upon request from the 
Department of the Environment.  
 
Other questions under I, and II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X and XI are not applicable.  
 
7.(a)  When importing a specimen of a species listed in either Appendix II or Appendix III of CITES, 
as indicated in Schedule I of the WAPTR, no Canadian import permit is required; the pe rmit 
or certificate issued by the exporting country is sufficient to allow import into Canada. When 
importing a specimen of a species listed in Appendix I of CITES, as indicated in Schedule I of 
the WAPTR, an application for a Canadian import permit should  be made at least 35 days prior 
to the expected date of arrival. Individual import permits for species listed in Schedule II of 
WAPTR can be applied for at least 70 days prior to the expected date of arrival. Permits are 
not issued retrospectively.  
 
(b) An individual import permit for species listed in Appendix I of CITES, as indicated in Schedule 
I of the WAPTR,  is normally granted within 35 days from receipt provided the criteria for 
issuing a permit are met. Import permits can be obtained within a shorte r time limit in special 
circumstances, for instance where live animals are involved. An individual import permit for 
species listed in Schedule II of WAPTR is normally granted within 70 days from receipt 
provided the criteria for issuing a permit are met. Import permits for species listed in Schedule 
II of WAPTR can likewise be obtained within a shorter time limit in special circumstances, for 
instance where live animals are involved.  
 
(c) Not applicable.  
 
(d) Permit applications are processed by the CITES Authorities of the Department of Environment 
Canada.  
8.  If the criteria have not been met, the applicant will be informed.  In such event, the applicant 
may request reconsideration by providing new information.  
 
9.  Citizenship and residency are not crite ria. 
 
Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  The importer is required to provide all the information requested by the Act and regulations 
depending on the type of animal or plant specimen intended for import. There are many  application 
forms specific to the type of animal or plant specimen and trade activity.  
 
CITES documents issued by the appropriate CITES authorities in the country of origin or in any 
subsequent re -exporting country, must accompany applications for CITES i mport permits.   
 
11.  Same documents as in the response to Question 10.  Specimens of CITES listed species arriving 
in Canada without a duly authentic CITES export permit will not be cleared by Canada Customs and 
are subject to seizure.  Specimens of speci es listed in Schedule II of WAPTR must be accompanied 
by a Canadian permit issued under subsection 10(1) of WAPPRIITA. Specimens of species listed on 
Appendix I of CITES as indicated in Schedule I of the WAPTR must be accompanied by a Canadian 
CITES import permit.  Customs entry forms are also required.    G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  12.  No fees.  
 
13.  Not applicable.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Import permits for species listed in both Schedule I and Schedule II of WAPTR are valid for one 
year from the date of issue.  In cases  of permit expiration before use, the applicant can apply for a 
replacement permit upon return of the expired permit.  
 
15. No.  
 
16. No.  
 
17. No.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Applicants for import permits have to meet any provincial/territorial/federal administrative 
procedures with regards to the specimen such as provisions for possession or transport within 
Canada.  
 
19.  Not applicable.  
 
12  EXPORT AND IMPORT OF  ROUGH DIAMONDS ACT  
Outline of system  
1.  The Export and Import o f Rough Diamonds Act  (S.C., 2002, c.25) received Royal Assent on 
12 December 2002 and came into force on 1st January 2003. The Act provides for controls on the 
export, import or transit across Canada of rough diamonds and for a certification scheme for the  
export of rough diamonds in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. Under 
this system, every person who exports rough diamonds must ensure that the diamonds are in a 
container that meets the requirements of the Export and Import of  Rough Diamonds Regulations  
(SOR/2003 -15) and are accompanied by a Canadian Certificate. On receiving an application for a 
Canadian Certificate from a resident of Canada for the export of rough diamonds, the Minister of 
Natural Resources must issue a Canad ian certificate if the application meets the requirements of the 
Regulations. Before issuing a Canadian Certificate, the Minister must be satisfied that the export is 
to a participant, the information contained in the application is accurate, and the rough  diamonds in 
respect of which the application is made originated in Canada, were extracted from mineral 
concentrates in Canada, were imported from a participant or were in Canada prior to 
1st January  2003.  
 
Every person who imports rough diamonds must ensu re that the diamonds are in a container that 
meets the requirements of the Regulations and are accompanied by a valid Kimberley Process 
Certificate that was issued by a participant, has not been invalidated by the participant and that 
contains accurate inf ormation. For the purpose of this Act, in -transit rough diamonds are deemed 
not to be imported or exported.  
 
Purposes and coverage of licensing  
2. The purpose of this Act is to provide for controls on the export, import or transit across Canada 
of rough di amonds in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. The 
Kimberley Process is an international understanding among participants that was recognized by 
Resolution 55/56 adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations on 1st Decemb er 2000. 
The Kimberley Process establishes minimum requirements for an international scheme of 
certification for rough diamonds with a view to breaking the link between armed conflict and the 
trade in rough diamonds. A rough diamond is defined as a diamond  that is unsorted, unworked or 
simply sawn, cleaved or bruted, and that falls under subheading 7102.10, 7102.21 or 7102.31 in 
the List of Tariff Provisions set out in the schedule to the Customs Tariff, but does not include 
diamonds that are of a class pre scribed by regulation.  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  3. The system applies to rough diamonds originating in and coming from a participant. A participant 
is defined as a State, international organization of States or dependent territory of a State, or a 
customs territory, named in the Schedule to the Act.  
 
4.  The licensing is intended to impose controls on rough diamonds to regulate their import, export 
and transit across Canada in order to meet Canada's obligations under the Kimberley Process. The 
Kimberley Process establishes minimum  requirements for an international certification scheme for 
rough diamonds with a view of breaking the link between the illicit transaction of rough diamonds 
and armed conflict as a contribution to prevention and settlement of conflicts.  
 
5.  The licensing  of exports is a requirement under section 8 of the Act, which establishes that a 
Canadian Kimberley Process Certificate is required for exporting rough diamonds from Canada. 
Section 12 provides that if the Minister of Natural Resources determines that inf ormation provided 
by an applicant in order to obtain a Canadian Certificate, or information appearing on the certificate, 
is inaccurate or has changed, the Minister may invalidate the certificate.  
 
Section 14 of the Act requires that imports of rough diamonds be accompanied by a Kimberley 
Process Certificate issued by a participant, that has not been invalidated, and that contains accurate 
information. Subsection 15(1) provides that if imported rough diamonds arrive in Canada 
accompanied by a Kimberley  Process Certificate that meets the requirements of section 14 of the 
Act, but are in a container that has been opened, the Minister may order the person who imported 
the rough diamonds to return them to the participant who issued the certificate.  
 
Pursuan t to paragraph 35(a), the Minister of Natural Resources may make regulations to prescribe 
the classes of diamonds to be excluded from the definition of "rough diamond".  
 
Legislative approval would be required to abolish this system.  
 
Procedures  
6.  Not applicable. Quantity and value restrictions, beyond the minimum requirements for 
Certificates in Annex I of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme Document, do not apply to 
imports of rough diamonds.  
 
7.    The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is  implemented through the national legislation of 
the respective participants. The participants' exporting authority is responsible for issuance of 
licences for export. Although participants' licensing systems conform to the Kimberley Process 
minimum requir ements, the terms vary from participant to participant in respect to application 
requirements and time frame for issuance of licences.  
 
It takes typically a business day to issue a Canadian licence for exports of rough diamonds from 
Canada. For clients wit h remote printing capability, it may take as little as a couple of hours from 
the submission of an application to issue a Canadian Certificate for exports. The Canadian licences 
for exports are issued by the Kimberley Process Office in the Department of Na tural Resources based 
in Ottawa. There are no further approvals required from other administrative entities for the issuance 
of export licences.  
 
8.  If an application for a Canadian licence for exports does not meet the criteria in subsection 9(2) 
of the Act, paragraph 9(1)(c) provides that the Minister must reject the application and the applicant 
is provided with the reasons for rejection in writing. Section 10 provides that if the applicant does 
not remedy the deficiency, within such time as the Ministe r considers reasonable, the Minister may 
reject the application.  
 
9.  Import licences are issued by foreign authorities of the respective participants. Export licences 
are issued by the Kimberley Process Office in the Department of Natural Resources under the 
authority of the Export and Import of Rough Diamonds Act . Only Canadian residents may apply for 
a licence to export rough diamonds from Canada. Although the system does not currently require 
registration of persons or firms, the Minister may make regul ations respecting the manner of 
submitting an application, specifying the information that must be included in it and the documents 
that must accompany the application  
 G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  Documentational and other requirements for application for licence  
10.  An application for a Canadian licence for export of rough diamonds under section 9 of the Act 
must include the following information as set out in section 2 of the Regulations:  
 
(a)   The applicant's name and address in Canada and, if the applicant is a corporation, the name 
of the individual submitting the application on its behalf;  
(b)  If the applicant is not the exporter of the rough diamonds, the name and address of the 
exporter;  
(c)   The name and address of the person to whom the exporter is exporting the rough dia monds;  
(d)   The name of the participant to which the rough diamonds are to be shipped;  
(e)   The origin of the rough diamonds including:  
(i)  If they were mined in Canada, the place and name of the mine;  
(ii)  If they were recovered during exploration in Canada, the longitude and latitude of the 
exploration site, and the place and name of the facility in which they were extracted;  
(iii)  if they were extracted in Canada from mineral concentrates that originated outside 
Canada, the place and name of the facility in which they were extracted;  
(iv)  if they were present in Canada at the coming into force of section 8 of the Act, 
documentary evidence establishing their presence in Canada at that time; and  
(v)  if they were imported into Canada af ter the coming into force of section 8 of the Act, 
the serial number of each Kimberley Process Certificate that accompanied the rough 
diamonds;  
(f)   The mass, measured in carats, of the rough diamonds in the shipment;  
(g)  The value, in United States doll ars, of the rough diamonds in the shipment;  
(h)  The subheading in the List of Tariff Provisions in the schedule to the Customs Tariff under 
which the rough diamonds are classified;  
(i)  The number of containers in the shipment and a seal number for each c ontainer; and  
(j)  A declaration signed and dated by the applicant stating that the information contained in the 
application is accurate.  
 
Section 3 of the Regulations provides that an application for the replacement of a Canadian licence 
for the export of  rough diamonds under section 11 of the Act must meet the following criteria:  
 
(a)  Be made before the export of the rough diamonds;  
(b)  Contain all the information required under section 2 of the Regulations including any 
information appearing on the Can adian licence that is inaccurate of has changed; and  
(c)   Be accompanied by the Canadian licence in respect of which the application is made.  
 
Under section 4 of the Regulations, an application to the Minister under section 9 or 11 of the Act 
must be deli vered by hand or sent by mail or courier or by facsimile or other electronic means  
 
11. Pursuant to subsection 14(1) of the Act, a Kimberley Process Certificate issued by a participant 
is required to accompany import shipments of rough diamonds into Canada . 
 
12.  There are currently no licensing fees or administrative fees charged to applicants for the 
issuance of licences for export of rough diamonds from Canada. However, section 34 of the Act 
provides that the Governor in Council may make regulations to p rescribe the fees payable for the 
issuance or replacement of a Canadian licence.  
 
13.  There is no deposit or advance payment requirement associated with the issuance of export 
licences.  
 
Conditions of licensing  
14. Section 6 of the Regulations provides that a Canadian Certificate is valid until 24:00 Greenwich 
mean time of the day that is 60 days after the date of issue. The validity of a licence cannot be 
extended. However, the period of validity may be changed by regulation by the Minister of Natural 
Resources pursuant to subsection 35 (b) of the Act.  
 
15. There is no penalty for the non -utilization of a licence.  
 
16. Licences are not transferable.  G/LIC/N/3/CAN/18  
 
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  17.(a) Not applicable.  
 
(b)  The Minister of Natural Resources may make regulations specifying the content of Canadian 
licences. Additionally, pursuant to section 7 of the Regulations, every exporter of rough 
diamonds must report the export to attest to the accuracy of the information contained in the 
Canadian licence by signing the repor t and sending it to the Minister within seven days of 
Export.  
 
Other procedural requirements  
18. Apart from procedures provided for in the Act and the Regulations, including requirements 
associated with inspections, record keeping and export and import rep orting, no additional 
administrative procedures are required.  
 
19. Not applicable.  
 
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