Methodology and sources

Trade data

Canadian export values come from Statistics Canada's Canadian International Merchandise Trade (CIMT) bulk files, customs basis, in Canadian dollars, for 2021, 2024 and 2025. Values are aggregated to 6-digit HS families. World import demand comes from the UN Comtrade public API, 2023 annual imports, all reporting countries, EU aggregate excluded. Comtrade values are US dollars (CIF) and are shown as approximate Canadian dollars at the Bank of Canada daily rate of 1.3876 (2026-08-26).

Tariff lists

Section 338 coverage is the official CBP implementation list (CSMS #69606660): 554 8-digit HTS lines in three headings (9903.03.12 alcohol, 9903.03.13 dairy, 9903.03.14 basket), 50% additional duty, in force August 22, 2026, stacking on all other duties regardless of CUSMA origin. Section 232 program coverage (metals, automobiles and parts, medium and heavy duty vehicles, lumber and furniture, semiconductors) is parsed from the product lists in HTS Chapter 99 subchapter III notes, 2026 revision. US and Canadian codes align at 6 digits, so a family tag means the program's lists reach into that family. Exact legal scope sits at the 8 to 10 digit level in the annexes. Verify classification with a customs broker before making decisions.

Product names and search

Display names are curated. Search synonyms are mined from the subjects of CBP CROSS classification rulings, which record what importers actually call products under each code.

Plays and steps

Market suggestions are computed from the data: existing Canadian channels are scored by size, growth and trade agreement access; whitespace markets are large ex-US importers where Canada is absent from the top destinations. Funding steps reflect the CanExport SMEs 2026-27 applicant's guide and the AgriMarketing program for food, drink and agricultural products. Program rules change; confirm current intake and eligibility on the linked pages.

Caveats