Update: The CBSA has changed this D-Memo, it is now Memorandum D19-15-1: Part 2.1 - Reporting of Goods, Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) Terrorist Financing Act
On April 1, 2025, the CBSA published D-memorandum D19-1-15, Part 2.1 - Reporting of Goods, Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA) to provide guidance on new declaration and record-keeping requirements for those involved in the import or export of goods.
Regulations to implement the new provisions of the PCMLTFA came into force on April 1, 2025. They require traders to declare whether imported or exported goods are proceeds of crime or are related to money laundering, terrorist financing, or sanctions evasion, and to attest that the goods are in fact being imported or exported. In addition, every person and business involved in the trade chain is also required to retain records and to answer truthfully questions related to the import or export of goods.
In D19-1-15, the CBSA clarifies that existing reports or declarations made under the Customs Act in relation to any current commercial processes will satisfy the PCMLTFA reporting requirements. Therefore, no new forms and no new processes are required.
The CBSA also states that the record-keeping requirements in the PCMLTFA align with existing requirements in the Customs Act, therefore no additional record-keeping requirements are being implemented.
Going forward, the CBSA will evaluate which forms or commercial processes, if any, may require updating to include new language to clarify the dual purpose of the reports and declarations. Impacted stakeholders will be advised as changes are made to any forms or declaration processes already in use.