Wall of shipping container multiple colours

The Ultimate Guide to Tariffs on Canadian Goods: Where to Find Accurate Information

March 20, 2025β€’3 min read

Understanding tariffs on Canadian goods is essential for businesses, importers, and consumers navigating trade regulations. Whether you’re looking for up-to-date tariff rates, government policies, or industry-specific guidance, this resource page compiles the best sources for accurate and official information.


1. Federal Government Resources on Tariffs

πŸ”Ή Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) – Official Tariff Classifications

πŸ“Œ Website: CBSA Customs Tariff
CBSA provides the
2025 Customs Tariff, outlining:

  • Harmonized System (HS) classification codes

  • Tariff rates by country

  • Exemptions and duty reductions

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Businesses importing/exporting goods to Canada, customs brokers, and logistics professionals.


πŸ”Ή Department of Finance Canada – Tariff Policy and Retaliatory Tariffs

πŸ“Œ Website: Finance Canada – Tariffs
This page covers:

  • Canada’s tariff reduction programs

  • Retaliatory tariffs (e.g., against U.S. trade measures)

  • Free trade agreements affecting tariffs (CUSMA, CETA, CPTPP)

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Companies affected by trade disputes, policymakers, and researchers.


πŸ”Ή Global Affairs Canada – Trade and Investment

πŸ“Œ Website: Trade and Investment Information
This resource provides:

  • Trade agreements and tariff benefits for Canadian exporters

  • Sanctions and restrictions affecting international trade

  • Rules of origin under CUSMA, CETA, and CPTPP

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Exporters looking for tariff exemptions and compliance information.


2. Provincial Tariff and Trade Support Programs

Each province has unique programs to assist businesses affected by tariffs. Here are key resources:

πŸ”Ή Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

πŸ“Œ Website: Ontario Trade Resources

  • Export tariff assistance programs

  • U.S. trade impact mitigation

πŸ”Ή Alberta Trade and Investment Support

πŸ“Œ Website: Alberta Trade

  • Oil and gas tariff relief programs

  • Agricultural export support

πŸ”Ή BC Trade and Investment Office

πŸ“Œ Website: Trade and Investment BC

  • Trade missions and tariff education

  • BC-based exporters' tariff updates

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Businesses looking for provincial tariff relief programs and trade support.


3. Industry-Specific Tariff Information

Different industries are affected by tariffs in unique ways. These resources help businesses stay compliant.

πŸ”Ή Retail and Manufacturing – Retail Council of Canada (RCC)

πŸ“Œ Website: RCC Tariffs & Trade Hub

  • U.S.-Canada tariff developments

  • Brokerage and customs compliance

πŸ”Ή Agriculture – Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance (CAFTA)

πŸ“Œ Website: CAFTA Trade Resources

  • Tariffs on food exports (canola, beef, seafood, pork)

  • Market access updates

πŸ”Ή Steel & Aluminum – Canadian Steel Producers Association

πŸ“Œ Website: CSPA Trade Updates

  • U.S. and China tariffs on steel and aluminum

  • Industry lobbying efforts and exemptions

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Retailers, farmers, and manufacturers affected by tariffs.


4. International Trade & Tariff Databases

For a global perspective on tariffs, these databases provide extensive information:

πŸ”Ή World Trade Organization (WTO) Tariff Database

πŸ“Œ Website: WTO Tariff Data

  • Canada’s tariffs on various countries

  • Tariff reduction schedules under trade agreements

πŸ”Ή United States International Trade Commission (USITC)

πŸ“Œ Website: US Tariff Database

  • Tariffs the U.S. places on Canadian goods

  • Product-specific duties and quotas

πŸ”Ή Trade Data Online (Government of Canada)

πŸ“Œ Website: Trade Data Online

  • Historical tariff trends on Canadian goods

  • Exports/imports by industry and country

πŸ‘‰ Best for: Researchers, policy analysts, and international traders.


5. How to Stay Updated on Canadian Tariffs

Since tariffs change frequently due to trade negotiations, businesses and individuals should monitor the latest updates.

πŸ”Ή Email Alerts & Newsletters

πŸ”Ή News Sources Covering Tariff Changes

  • The Globe and Mail – Business

  • Financial Post – Trade

  • CBC News – Trade & Economics


Final Thoughts

Understanding tariffs on Canadian goods is crucial for businesses navigating trade barriers and opportunities. By leveraging federal, provincial, and industry-specific resources, companies can stay informed and minimize tariff-related risks.

Bookmark this page and subscribe to official trade alerts to stay ahead of tariff changes!


Back to Blog