The exporter’s guide to CUSMA compliance: tools, tips, and tariff navigation

As Canadian exporters continue to face an evolving trade landscape, understanding and complying with the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) has never been more critical. 

Recent U.S. tariff actions and the growing complexity of international trade rules mean Canadian businesses need to be proactive, well-informed, and ready to act. Whether you're a first-time exporter or a seasoned trader expanding into the U.S. market, we have compiled the latest tools and support to help you succeed. 

Here’s a streamlined toolkit to help you mitigate issues when exporting to the U.S., remain competitive, and explore new global opportunities. 

1. Supporting Canadian exporters through United States tariff challenges 

A centralized page for the latest developments and support 

This resource consolidates key updates, tools, and support programs—including links to provincial programs, industry-specific assistance, and practical guides for CUSMA compliance.  

2. Self-serve resources for problem solving 

Common questions answered by experts 

Need clear, jargon-free answers about how tariffs work, who pays them, and what your business can do to adapt? Explore these self-serve resources for guidance on Incoterms, tariff classification, and policy updates that matter to your bottom line.  

3. Understanding CUSMA compliance 

Your foundation for exporting tariff-free to the U.S. 

Before you can benefit from tariff savings, your product must meet CUSMA’s rules of origin and be properly certified. To help with this, we have published a comprehensive overview of CUSMA compliance that explains how to claim preferential treatment, navigate Harmonized System (HS) codes, and understand which products are eligible. It’s a key starting point for exporters looking to avoid tariffs imposed under the U.S. International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). 

4. Step-by-step guide to CUSMA compliance 

A clear path from classification to certification 

Once you understand the basics, this step-by-step guide walks you through the full process—from identifying your product’s HS code and reviewing product-specific rules of origin to issuing certification and preparing your records for verification. It’s practical, structured, and written with exporters in mind. 

5. Canada's response to U.S. tariffs 

Understand Canada’s countermeasures and supports for affected businesses 

Get up to speed on how Canada is addressing U.S. tariff actions with countermeasures, remission frameworks, and economic support for affected sectors. If your business is directly impacted, this is where you’ll find details on surtax programs and how to apply for relief.

6. International trade and investment  

Explore global business pathways 

Planning to expand your reach or refine how you operate internationally? This resource brings together a wide range of trade-related guidance and updates, from policy developments and regulatory insights to HS codes and data-driven analysis. 

Whether you're navigating foreign regulations, importing goods, or evaluating trade agreements, it helps ensure your business decisions are grounded in reliable information and a broader global perspective.

7. Canada Tariff Finder 

Find your HS code and compare tariff rates with ease 

One of the most intuitive tools for exporters, the Canada Tariff Finder helps you identify your product’s HS code and instantly get tariff rates for over 50 countries with which Canada has a free trade agreement—including the U.S. It's fast, easy, and especially helpful for checking tariff-free eligibility under the CUSMA.  

8. Diversifying your exports  

Resilience through global market expansion 

The CUSMA opens the door to North America, but there’s a world beyond. With our support, Canadian companies can explore new markets, reduce risk, and build long-term resilience. Learn how you can access personalized advisory services, funding, and market-entry support to do business with the world.

9. Educational Videos 

These quick, practical videos explain how to benefit from CUSMA’s tariff-free treatment—and avoid costly mistakes. 

• CUSMA Compliance – What Canadian exporters need to know: A concise walkthrough of the essentials: HS codes, rules of origin, certification, and the value of advance rulings from United States Customs and Border Protection (U.S. CBP).   

• Grow your Business in North America with CUSMA: Rules and Certification of Origin: Learn what makes a product “originating,” how to certify it correctly, and when you might qualify for exceptions. Includes tips on advance rulings.

10. CUSMA support line: 1-833-760-1167 

Get support from experts who understand your needs 

Sometimes, a conversation can save you hours. This service helps Canadian exporters to navigate CUSMA compliance and access the U.S. market with more confidence.

11. United States market intelligence - EDC 

Partner-powered insights for exporters 

Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada (EDC) offers up-to-date intelligence on the U.S. trade environment, economic trends, tariff impacts, and supply chain challenges. 

From articles and checklists to on-demand webinars, EDC’s resources help you navigate uncertainty. You’ll also find guidance on topics like foreign exchange risk, mergers and acquisitions. 

12. Supporting your business through trade uncertainty - BDC 

More expert support to help your business pivot 

Business Development Canada (BDC) has created a resource page to help you build resilience and adapt in times of disruption. With insights from BDC’s leadership, access to financing and advisory services, this resource is designed to help you act with more clarity. 

Stay agile. Stay informed. 

We, together with our partners, are committed to helping you navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and succeed globally. Bookmark this toolkit, connect with our team, and let us help you chart a resilient path forward. 

Trade moves fast—so do we. These resources are updated in real time, with new information added to the TCS website as it becomes available.