The CSCB was pleased to welcome more than 300 delegates to its 2026 National Conference, held September 27–29 at the Hilton Lac-Leamy in Gatineau, Quebec. Under the theme Focus on Compliance, this year’s conference addressed key issues affecting customs brokers, from tariff policy and trade measures to changing regulatory requirements.
The conference opened with remarks from CSCB Chair Penny Moulton and President Janine Harker, followed by a keynote address from Erin O’Gorman, President of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
Government updates were a key part of the program. CBSA representatives Med Ahmadoun, Valéry Sina Ba and Abderrahim Boussanni presented an update on financial compliance. Jay Allen, Director General of the Trade Negotiations and Multilateral Policy Bureau, discussed Canada’s trade agreements, while Scott Winter, Director General of International Trade Policy at Finance Canada, examined Canada’s tariff policy and its impact on importers and exporters.
Surtax orders and remission measures were also discussed, with representatives from the CBSA and Finance Canada addressing current requirements, available remission opportunities and the importance of compliance at the time of accounting and during subsequent verifications. Robert Kreklewetz and David West of Millar Kreklewetz LLP looked back at tariff developments over the past 18 months and shared their views on what may come next.
On the second day, Stuart Bergman, Chief Economist at Export Development Canada, presented a global trade outlook. Sebastian Ahlstich of Copenhagen Business School explored preferential trade agreements and how changes to most-favoured-nation tariff rates can affect their benefits.
Breakout sessions gave delegates a closer look at practical and regulatory issues, including CARM developments, engine emissions reporting, CFIA processes and upcoming changes, and sanctions compliance. Representatives from the CBSA, Environment and Climate Change Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Global Affairs Canada and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police took part in the sessions.
Those who weren't able to attend can also access conference presentations and audio recordings to explore key discussions and insights at their convenience.
The 2027 CSCB National Conference will take place September 26-28 at the Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia. We look forward to welcoming delegates next year.
