On June 27, 2025, the Government of Canada, in coordination with CBSA and Global Affairs, enacted a 50% surtax on certain steel imports from countries that do not have a free trade agreement with Canada

This new tariff-rate quota (TRQ) applies unless importers hold a shipment-specific permit issued by Global Affairs Canada.

Key Details at a Glance

Scope: Steel goods listed under Item 82 of the Import Control List originating from non‑FTA countries
Requirement: A GAC-issued EIPA permit, available up to 15 days before arrival, is needed to avoid the surtax
Calculation: 50% of value for duty
Stacking Risk: Surtax may stack with existing orders (e.g. China surtaxes), leading to combined duties up to 75%
Exemptions: Goods in transit before June 27, casual goods, goods of Free Trade Partner origin, and those classified under Chapter 98

Impact for Importers

This sudden hike impacts cash flow and landed cost calculation significantly. For importers shipping steel from affected countries:

⦁ Permit acquisition is now essential
⦁ Forecasting duty exposure becomes more complex
⦁ Compliance documentation must be robust to support origin claims

How Maska International Can Support You

⦁ Conduct permit feasibility reviews
⦁ Assist with submission and tracking of EIPA number applications
⦁ Validate shipment origin documentation
⦁ Forecast and model duty stacking scenarios
⦁ Provide quick responses to CBSA and GAC queries

Final Word

This 50% surcharge marks a significant shift in steel import strategy. If you’re importing affected goods, now is the time to act. We’re here to help secure permits and minimize duty exposure.

Warm regards,
Maska International Customs Broker
Anton