Staples in strips HS 8305.20

Staples in strips, base metal, not elsewhere specified, e.g. for offices, upholstery or packaging

15-25%
US tariff Section 232 metals(on the full value; under 15% metal by weight is exempt)
2025 exports C$1.5M
Beyond the US C$66k

Where else to sell

1. Germany 0% Tariff free CETA

Germany imports ~C$32M of staples in strips a year (2023). Not among Canada’s top destinations in 2025.

2. Mexico 0% Tariff free CUSMA and CPTPP

Mexico imports ~C$28M of staples in strips a year (2023). In a different region from the markets above.

3. Indonesia 0% Tariff free CEPA

Indonesia imports ~C$25M of staples in strips a year (2023). Not among Canada’s top destinations in 2025.

The steps

  1. 1

    Check you qualify for CanExport SMEs: incorporated with a CRA number, 3 to 500 staff, $300k to $100M revenue, under $100k of your sales in the target market last year.

  2. 2

    Scope a $20k to $100k entry project (trade events, marketing adaptation, buyer identification consultants). The program pays half, up to $50k. Apply at the CanExport portal. The 2026-27 intake closes August 31, 2026 at noon ET. The US-market envelope is already fully allocated; non-US applications remain open.

  3. 3

    Free help: Trade Commissioner Service desks for Germany, Mexico and Indonesia. Request "qualified contacts" (curated buyer and distributor lists).

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