China is a significant partner for Canada in the global trade landscape, second only to the United States. A substantial portion of its exports are agricultural and resource-related products. Have you ever considered the intricate process of importing goods from China to Canada? What aspects of this process warrant our attention?

Basics of importing goods from China
1. How to import wholesale products from China to the Canada
- Selecting a Supplier: First, identify a suitable Chinese supplier or manufacturer. You can find a partner through trade fairs, B2B platforms (such as Alibaba and Global Sources), or directly contact the manufacturer.
- Request a quote and negotiate: Please discuss the price, delivery time, payment terms, quality requirements, etc., with the supplier. Ensure the supplier can provide the required products and meet US quality standards.
- Sign a contract: It is essential to sign a formal contract or purchase agreement with the supplier that clearly states the price, delivery method, payment method, and delivery time.
- Choose a shipping method: Please determine the most appropriate shipping method: sea freight, air freight, or express. Sea freight is typically used for large shipments, while air freight or express is suitable for smaller shipments.
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- Payment method: The most common methods include Telegraphic Transfer (T/T) and Letter of Credit (L/C). Before making payment, it is essential to verify the supplier’s creditworthiness and the quality of their products.
2. Costs of importing from China
Several factors influence the cost of importing goods from China to the Canada
- Product cost: The product’s price is a key factor in determining its competitiveness in the market.
- Shipping costs: The cost of shipping is calculated using various metrics, including weight, volume, shipping method (e.g., sea freight, air freight, land freight, etc.), and distance. Sea freight is typically more economical but time-consuming, while air freight is pricier but quicker.
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- Customs duties and taxes: Canada Customs imposes tariffs and taxes on imported goods. Tariff rates vary depending on the type and value of the goods.
- Customs clearance fees: These include the customs broker’s fees and customs formalities’ costs.
- Insurance costs: To mitigate the risks associated with transportation, appropriate insurance coverage, particularly for international shipping, is essential.
- Storage and delivery costs: If goods must be stored in a warehouse or additional deliveries are necessary, these expenses should also be incorporated into the budget.
Canada import taxes, duties and other charges on Chinese goods
It is important to note that the specific import taxes, duties, and other fees Canada imposes on Chinese goods are subject to variation depending on the type of goods and the method of importation. In general, these fees may include:
Customs Duties: Canada may impose customs duties on imported merchandise depending on its classification and value. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) ‘s official website provides specific customs duties rates.
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Goods and Services Tax (GST): A 5% GST applies to all goods sold in Canada, including imported goods.
Import Taxes: Additional import taxes may apply if the goods fall into a specific category.
Additional Fees: Imported merchandise may also involve additional fees such as processing fees and import handling fees.
How to obtain a Canadian import permit
1. Determine whether an import permit is required
Not all goods require an import permit in Canada, but certain controlled goods do. Check the following resources to confirm:
- The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Controlled Goods List
- The Canadian Department of International Affairs Import and Export Control List
2. Register for an importer business number (BN)
Companies or individuals importing goods in Canada need a valid import and export business number. This can be registered with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA):
- Register with the CRA
- Make sure your BN includes “Import/Export Account
3. Apply for import permits
You must usually apply to the relevant agency if your goods require a permit. For example
- Food and agricultural products: through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
- Medicines and medical devices: through Health Canada
- Weapons and strategic goods: through Global Affairs Canada
4. Understand customs regulations
Before goods are imported into Canada, ensure that the following requirements are met:
- Goods classification: Use the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System (HS Code) to classify goods accurately.
- Declared value: Declare the value of goods truthfully, including freight and insurance (CIF price).
- Labelling requirements: Certain goods must comply with Canadian language and labelling regulations.
5. Use a freight forwarder
For complex import processes, you can hire a professional customs broker to help with permit applications, customs clearance procedures and tax payments.
6. Validity period of import permits
Import permits usually have a validity period, so please ensure the import is completed within the period. If the license expires, you may need to reapply.
Canadian Export Documentation Requirements
Other documents required for exporting to Canada will vary depending on your product but include:
- Bill of Lading
- USMCA Certificate of Origin
- Packing list
- Sales Contract
- Pro forma invoice
- Customs Declaration
- Warranty
Chinese export restrictions and regulations
1. Chinese export restrictions
China has implemented restrictions and controls on the export of certain products. For instance:
- Military-related goods: such as weapons, ammunition and other military equipment.
- Technical products: certain high-tech products, especially those related to national security, may be restricted.
- Environmental protection products: In particular, environmentally harmful wastes and pollutants are restricted.
2. Products banned from export in China
- Endangered animals and plants and their products: It is strictly prohibited to trade in ivory, rhinoceros horn, wild yew products, etc., due to the endangered status of the species. Violators will face severe legal sanctions.
- Cultural relics: The export of immovable cultural relics, including ancient sites, buildings, stone carvings, and murals, of historical, artistic, and scientific value, as well as various movable cultural relics, is strictly prohibited without the necessary authorization. Cultural relic departments are responsible for the rigorous appraisal and approval of cultural relic exports to safeguard the integrity of the cultural heritage within the country.
3. Obtaining an export license
Certain products require specific export licenses to be exported to other countries. These licenses can be obtained in the following ways:
- Apply through Chinese government agencies: It’s similar to the Ministry of Commerce and the General Administration of Customs.
- Rely on an export agent: work with a qualified export agency to help with the necessary export procedures.
Canadian customs clearance process and points to note
How does Canadian customs clearance work?
- After the goods arrive at a Canadian port or airport, the freight forwarder will submit the relevant documents to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for review.
- The CBSA will verify the declared content of the goods and ensure that all import taxes, duties and other fees have been paid.
- During the customs clearance process, the CBSA may require additional inspections and tests.
- Once cleared, the goods can enter the Canadian market and be distributed.
Important notes
- Prepare documents in advance: Ensure that all documents are ready before the goods arrive to avoid delays in customs clearance.
- Comply with regulations: Understand and comply with Canadian import regulations to ensure you do not violate any rules.
- Choose the correct customs clearance agent: If you are unfamiliar with the customs clearance process, consider hiring a professional to help.
What are the biggest challenges you face?
- Tariffs and fees are not transparent: Importers may find that the calculation of tariffs and fees is not transparent, resulting in additional costs.
- Customs clearance delays: Incomplete or inaccurate documents may result in customs clearance delays, affecting the timely delivery of goods.
You may want to know: Customs Delay? Here’s How to Get Your Packages stuck in customs!
- Changes in regulatory requirements: Import regulations and policies in Canada may change, requiring constant attention and timely response.
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