As is the case every 5 years when the WCO Harmonized System Committee prepares amendments updating the Customs Tariff, it is expected that there will be a significantly large number of updates to the 2017 tariff.

And, given the number of updates expected and the need for members to have the updates as quickly as possible, the CSCB has contacted CBSA and the Department of Finance, asking if they would consider providing a working updated tariff, prior to its publication.

Finance’s response was that they are currently working on the Order-in-Council to implement the HS amendments at the tariff item (8 digit) level and the intention is to have it passed before September. Once it is passed, the updates will be available at the tariff item level. Statistics Canada will be making a number of changes at the statistical level and we will have to wait until the CBSA publishes the Departmental Consolidation to see those changes.

However, Finance has asked CBSA to post the concordance document on its website as soon as the OIC passes even if the tariff is not yet ready for publishing and we hope that this will be some assistance to members.

Members will be advised of any new developments.