On April 7, 2026, the CSCB hosted a webinar with the CBSA to review the 2026 Single Window Addendum Changes (link). During that webinar we received a few questions about the Health Canada updates related to an exemption code or excipient code for goods that fall under API category and are imported for industrial, educational purposes.
We reached out to Health Canada and they advised the following:
We are aware of this issue and have received similar enquiries regarding chemical substances that fall under HS codes mapped to the API profile, but which are not imported for pharmaceutical use and are imported for industrial, educational purposes.
The upcoming SWI system enhancements under the ECCRD Addendum are expected to address this concern. Specifically, the introduction of Health Canada Product Category code HC99 will allow importers to declare goods that fall under an API mapped HS code but are not subject to any Health Canada Acts or Regulations. This includes excipients and other chemical substances imported for industrial or educational use. As a result, a separate exemption code is not required.
Please note that any chemical substance, regardless of intended use, that is listed as a Class A or Class B precursor, or controlled drug, continues to fall under Health Canada’s regulatory mandate and must be declared through the SWI OCS pathway with the applicable licence, registration, or permit information.
The CSCB truly appreciates member engagement and all questions; whether asked during a webinar or sent directly to our inbox at [email protected]. Please don't hesitate to reach out at any time - thank you!