Trade Regulation Update: Steel Importations

Information c/o: Global Affairs Canada & Canada Border Services Agency

Effective November 5th, 2024, steel importers must supply additional information in order to secure a release from Canada Customs for all steel importations covered under GIP80 & 81. Steel importers will be required to report the “country of melt and pour” to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

All steel importers must ensure the below documentation is supplied to their Customs Broker so they can report the necessary information on your behalf in order secure a release of goods. The importer should inform vendors to include all necessary information on the Canada Customs Invoice at time of shipping. CBSA and Global Affairs holds the Importer of Record responsible for correct information at the time of release. Failure to do so will result in penalties and fines.

To ensure a seamless transition, steel importers are encouraged to begin reporting the country of melt and pour before the official effective date (please see link below).

Necessary Documentation/Information:

• Country of Melt and Pour (COM)  (through the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration (SW IID))
• Exporter ID Number (15 digit CARM registered Exporter RM Account number)
• Model ID Number (goods being imported)
• Description of Goods in accordance with the SIMA regulations

What is Country of Melt and Pour (COM)?

Generally, COM is the original location where raw steel is first produced in a steel-making furnace in a liquid state and then poured into its first solid shape. The COM may be different from the country of origin and this information is usually available on a mill test certificate. The COM is not provided on Mill Certificates. Ensure your vendor includes the COM on the Customs documents at time of import.

What is the Single Window Integrated Import Declaration?

The CBSA’s SW IID is a release option available to Trade Chain Partners and enables importers and customs brokers to electronically submit their import declarations prior to the arrival of their goods at the Canadian border. This service simplifies the process and reduces the paper burden and cost of doing business. For now, COM information can only be provided by using the SW IID.

Related Links and Resources:

• News Release: Canada to Make Steel Supply Chain More Transparent
• General Information on the Administration of Steel Import Controls
• Steel Import Monitoring Program Reports