What is a CTCS (Certified Trade Compliance Specialist) designation?

The CTCS (Certified Trade Compliance Specialist) designation

  • recognizes the experience and expertise of international trade compliance professionals,
  • sets a standard for ongoing professional development in a field where change is constant,
  • supports a network for information sharing and collaboration.

Trade compliance is defined as ensuring that all legislation, regulatory and other requirements relating to the importation and exportation of commercial shipments are met.

Become a CTCS

To become a CTCS, you must successfully complete the CTCS program of study.

CTCS program

The designation will be awarded upon successful completion of ten modules, eight mandatory and two elective, within a 5-year period. View CTCS program of study for further details.

Grandfathering

The grandfathering period closed on March 31, 2012.

Benefits of becoming a CTCS 

CTCS designates receive the following benefits:

  • Ongoing promotion of the CTCS designation as the standard of trade compliance expertise;
  • Annual publication of CTCS designates;
  • Semi-annual (web-) seminars for CTCS designates only;
  • FREE CTCS module per 3-year credit cycle;
  • FREE online Resource Centre;
  • Webinars on high level trade topics;
  • Access to a CTCS online community through a discussion forum;
  • Using the CTCS next to your name;
  • Periodic e-newsletters (topics covered are of specific interest to international trade compliance professionals);
  • Preferential registration fees for CSCB events and courses;
  • Discounts on other memberships and publications; and
  • Group home and auto insurance at preferred rates.

Maintenance of CTCS designation

To maintain the CTCS designation, the designate must earn professional development credits over a three year period and pay an annual fee.

Advisory board

The program is directed by an advisory board of highly respected trade lawyers, importers, trade consultants and customs brokers.

Questions/Comments

If you have any questions, please view the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), or email us at [email protected].