The transaction value provides the primary valuation method in respect of imported goods. It is the price actually paid or payable for the goods when sold for export to Canada. Downward adjustments include the costs of transportation and storage in Canada and of construction, erection, assembly, maintenance and technical services performed in Canada, and, if the seller is the importer of record, any customs duties and federal sales taxes paid on the importation. SIMA is based upon the World Trade Organization's Anti-Dumping Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures. Subsidies or other financial or commercial benefits, either direct or indirect, are often granted to producers and distributors of goods for export by governments and others under the authority of law.
Many subsidies can be subject to countervailing duty.
Canada does not impose duties on dumped or subsidized goods unless the Canadian International Trade Tribunal, after holding an inquiry, determines that the dumping or subsidies have caused or are threatening to cause material injury to an established Canadian industry producing like goods. In addition to customs duties imported goods and some services are subject to the federal Goods and Services Tax. Every province of Canada imposes a retail sales tax except Alberta. Goods that are to be resold commercially are not subject to the tax. The federal government may restrict the import or export of certain goods under the authority of the Export and Import Permits Act .