USMCA's impact on Canadian imports

How NAFTA (or USMCA) Affects Importing into Canada

By | 2025-02-03T21:22:56+00:00 February 3rd, 2025|USMCA|

NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement, was a landmark trade deal signed by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 1992. It came into effect in 1994 and remained active for over two decades before being replaced by the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020.

The transition from NAFTA to USMCA introduced new provisions and regulatory changes that impacted businesses importing goods into Canada. This article explores the effects of USMCA on Canada’s importing landscape, focusing on tariffs and regulatory adjustments.

Before exploring the impact of USMCA on Canadian imports, it’s essential to understand NAFTA and the significant changes introduced during the transition.

What Is NAFTA/USMCA?

The purpose of NAFTA

NAFTA eliminated trade barriers between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico with the purpose of:

  • Promotion of fair competition in the region
  • Establishing procedures for dispute resolution
  • Establishing a framework for future cooperation
  • Increasing investment opportunities in the region
  • Protecting intellectual property rights

The agreement fostered North American competitiveness by significantly increasing trade volumes and enhancing regional economic integration.

Key Changes in the Transition from NAFTA to USMCA

USMCA, addressing modern trade concerns, revised several provisions of NAFTA. The key changes in this transition are as follows:

  • Tariff adjustments were implemented in sectors such as dairy and automotive, introducing tariff rate quotas (TRQs) for certain agricultural products and altering import costs. While NAFTA allowed many goods to be traded duty-free, USMCA brought notable changes to this framework.
  • USMCA established stricter rules of origin requirements, especially for the automotive industry. Tariff-free status is applied to vehicle components sourced primarily from North America. This rule encouraged local sourcing and manufacturing, affecting import practices.
  • Businesses engaged in e-commerce and digital services benefited from provisions such as prohibiting customs duties on digital products and increased data localization flexibility. This is significant for Canadian companies as it facilitates digital trade by prohibiting customs duties on digital products.
  • The USMCA has increased trade volumes between Canada and its North American partners. Reduced tariffs and improved market access have also bolstered Canada’s exports to the U.S. and Mexico. The agriculture, automotive, and technology sectors are the three biggest winners of these changes.

Goals of the USMCA for cross-border trade

  • Stronger economic ties between the participating countries
  • Fairer trade conditions compared to NAFTA
  • Promotion of sustainable development in the region
  • Enhanced protection for businesses in North America

Key Provisions of USMCA Relevant to Importers

Simplified customs processes for importing into Canada

USMCA has facilitated faster cross-border trade by streamlining customs procedures. This has helped both importers and businesses. Businesses can now maintain efficient supply chain operations and cut costs. The agreement has reduced administrative burdens for importers, resulting in faster customs clearance times.

Tariff eliminations or reductions under USMCA

Tariff eliminations under USMCA have benefitted Canadian importers by lowering import costs.

Rules of origin: Impact on eligibility for preferential treatment

Importers can access duty-free automobiles containing at least 75% North American components.

Improved digital trade and e-commerce regulations

Reduced restrictions on cross-border e-commerce have benefited importers. Additionally, the USMCA allows businesses to store and process data across all three countries.

How the USMCA Affects Specific Industries

To avoid penalties, businesses must carefully adhere to updated rules of origin and revised tariff classifications under USMCA.

Automotive Sector

USMCA has tightened rules of origin for auto parts, requiring higher regional content to qualify for tariff benefits. Additionally, the agreement includes a labor value content rule, which mandates that a portion of auto manufacturing occurs under wages of at least $16 per hour.

Agricultural goods

With few limitations, Canadian farmers can now access U.S. dairy, grain, and poultry markets. Lower trade restrictions have increased U.S. imports under specific quotas.

Textiles and apparel

USMCA ensures fair competition and increases textile production in North America. If textiles meet specific origin requirements, importers have access to duty-free textiles. Stricter compliance measures have also been enforced on textiles and apparel.

Challenges for Importers Under USMCA

Stricter enforcement of rules of origin

Importers must present detailed documentation, such as certificates of origin, to qualify for preferential tariffs under the USMCA. Compliance with the new rules of origin is more rigorous. Businesses failing to meet regional content requirements can face unexpected tariffs. 

Adjusted quotas for certain goods

Adjusted quotas for agricultural and manufactured goods have forced importers to revise sourcing strategies, which could impact established supply chains. Careful navigation of these quotas is essential to minimize potential disruptions.

Compliance documentation and certification

Under the USMCA, comprehensive documentation is necessary to avoid potential compliance pitfalls. Importers must work with experienced customs brokers for documentation and faster customs clearance.

Benefits of USMCA for Canadian Importers

Cost savings through reduced tariffs

By reducing tariffs on qualifying goods, the USMCA allows Canadian businesses to lower import costs, stay competitive, and offer consumers more affordable pricing.

Increased predictability and stability in trade 

USMCA provides long-term trade stability, enabling Canadian investors and businesses to trade more confidently. The agreement also allows companies to plan for the future more accurately, particularly regarding regulatory requirements.

Streamlined customs clearance processes

Importers reliant on just-in-time supply chains now enjoy streamlined customs procedures. These include:

  • Expedited imports
  • Reduced delays
  • Low administrative burdens

Key Steps for Importing into Canada Under USMCA

Verify rules of origin and product eligibility

To qualify for preferential treatment, businesses must ensure that imported goods comply with the USMCA’s rules of origin requirements. Thorough product evaluations are crucial to verifying compliance before proceeding with the importation process.

Understand and use certificates of origin

Maintain detailed records of any documents to get customs clearance and tariff benefits.

Collaborate with customs brokers to ensure compliance

Good customs brokers can assist with paperwork and customs procedures. Businesses must hire experienced customs brokers to simplify compliance with USMCA regulations.

Tips for Leveraging USMCA for Your Business

Monitor industry-specific tariff adjustments

Staying informed about tariff changes in sectors like automotive and agriculture helps businesses optimize sourcing and adjust pricing strategies effectively. Focusing on these sectors can significantly reduce costs.

Invest in training for trade compliance

Training employees on trade regulations can enhance operational efficiency. Another advantage of training is that it minimizes compliance risks. Logistics teams should have regular training sessions.

Stay updated on USMCA amendments or policy updates

To stay informed about USMCA changes, businesses should subscribe to official government trade websites and industry associations.

Conclusion

The USMCA introduces both opportunities and challenges for Canadian importers. Businesses can optimize their operations and stay compliant by understanding its key provisions. Engaging an expert customs broker can further simplify the importing process and ensure compliance with USMCA regulations. Finally, staying proactive and informed will allow your business to maximize the USMCA’s trade advantages.

Still need help navigating USMCA regulations? Come work with our consultants for a hassle-free import experience!