Import Controls Updated for Textiles and Yogurt

Summary#

The Order Amending the Import Control List (Miscellaneous Program) updates which goods are listed as controlled for import under the Export and Import Permits Act. It mainly adds or clarifies rules for certain textile and apparel items (including goods finished in Chile and Costa Rica) and for some yogurt product classifications. The order came into force on March 4, 2022.

What it does#

• Changes entries on the Import Control List to cover more specific textile and apparel situations, including goods finished and cut-and-sewn in Chile or Costa Rica from fabrics that were produced outside those countries and Canada.
• Updates which textile and apparel tariff classifications are listed as controlled. (The amendments change several numbered list entries in the Import Control List.)
• Clarifies the description of certain yogurt products that are controlled, including yogurt classified under tariff items 0403.20.29 and 0403.20.39, and a not-for-retail yogurt category under 0403.20.21 and 0403.20.31.
• Comes into force on the day it was registered: March 4, 2022.

Who's affected#

• Importers and customs brokers who bring in clothing, textiles or related apparel items that match the updated descriptions.
• Manufacturers and suppliers who source fabrics and have garments finished in countries like Chile or Costa Rica.
• Food importers and distributors dealing with the specific yogurt types listed.
• Retailers and wholesalers may be indirectly affected if import paperwork, timing, or costs change.

If it’s unclear whether a particular product is affected, importers or brokers will need to check the updated tariff descriptions or consult Canada Border Services and permit authorities.

Why it matters#

• Putting goods on the Import Control List generally means extra paperwork and that an import permit may be needed. That can add time and cost to shipments.
• The changes target specific supply-chain situations (for example, garments finished in a given country from fabrics made elsewhere). Businesses that rely on those production arrangements may need to change sourcing or allow for permit steps.
• For consumers, effects could show up as changes in availability or price of certain clothing items or niche yogurt products, depending on how businesses respond.