Overview of Current Tariffs
U.S. Tariffs and CUSMA Compliance Information for Businesses
UPDATE: As of August 1, 2025, the United States has implemented a 35% tariff on non-CUSMA compliant goods imported from Canada. This is part of a broader set of trade measures announced by the U.S. government earlier this year. Goods that qualify as CUSMA compliant (under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement) may be exempt from this tariff.
Existing Tariffs on Canada:
- Non-CUSMA compliant goods are subject to a 35% tariff (Updated as of August 1, 2025)
- Steel and Aluminum exports are subject to a 50% tariff
- Non-CUSMA compliant energy and potash are subject to a 10% tariff
- Automobile and parts imports are subject to a 25% tariff
Understanding CUSMA Compliance and U.S. Tariffs
As of August 1, 2025, the United States has implemented a 35% tariff on non-CUSMA compliant goods imported from Canada. If you're a small to medium-sized business exporting products to the U.S., understanding your product's CUSMA compliance status is key to avoiding additional costs.
The following steps can help you determine if your product qualifies as CUSMA compliant:
Step 1: Find your product’s HS code
Use the Canadian Tariff Finder to identify the Harmonized System (HS) code for your product:
🔗 tariffinder.ca/en/getStarted
Step 2: Check if your product qualifies as originating under CUSMA
Each product must meet specific origin criteria outlined in the CUSMA agreement.
Review Article 4.2 of the CUSMA agreement for qualifying rules:
🔗 Originating Goods Criteria – Article 4.2 (PDF)
Step 3: Prepare a Certificate of Origin
If your product qualifies as originating under CUSMA, you must present a Certificate of Origin to claim the tariff exemption.
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There is no official form, but it must include the required elements outlined in Annex 5-A – Minimum Data Elements:
🔗 Annex 5-A – CUSMA Certificate Requirements (PDF) -
A template form is available from U.S. Customs and Border Protection:
📄 Download Certification of Origin Template (PDF)
Our Message to businesses:
If you’re unsure how these tariff changes may impact your business or whether your goods qualify under CUSMA, contact the Caledon Economic Development Office. Our team is here to help you navigate these changes.
📧 Email us: business@caledon.ca
📞 Call us: 905.584.2272 x. 4152
The Government of Canada Response |
On March 4, 2025, Canada implemented 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with plans to expand these tariffs to $125 billion in imports. On April 15, 2025, the Government of Canada has introduced new measures to support businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs:
More federal support is expected in the coming weeks. |
The Government of Ontario Response: (Update 8/21/2025) |
On April 7, 2025, the Province announced they will deferring select provincially administered taxes for six months:
On April 16, 2025, the Province has introduced the Protect Ontario through Free Trade within Canada Act to make it easier for businesses to grow across provincial borders. Key highlights include:
The Ontario government has launched the Protect Ontario Financing Program to help businesses manage tariff-related disruptions from U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum, and autos.The program offers term loans to support working capital needs, including:
📄 Read the announcement |
Tariff Tools
NEW:🔍Shop Canadian Resource Now Live
We’re excited to launch a new resource that helps businesses and consumer alike identify how to shop Canadian. It’s part of our commitment to support local supply chains and encourage buying Canadian — proudly and confidently.
Business Resources and Information |
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Check out workshops and trainings for Caledon businesses, including the Small Business Growth Series, and local and regional events held in-person or virtually to support businesses at any stage.