This was forwarded to me via FB from the guy who sets up our Canadian Fishing trips. It is apparently info from the Executive Director of Ontario Sunset Country via a resort owner.
If accurate, sounds like a good time will be had by all.
Below is some more info on tariffs and crossing the border, from the Executive Director of Ontario’s Sunset Country
“Hi all, I was finally able to speak with a Superintendent at the Fort Frances Border regarding tariffs and the border process> Here is a summary of that discussion:
• Every vehicle will be charged the tariffs, with no exceptions. Officers have been instructed to charge a tariff on all “consumable goods.”
• The best way to speed up the process is for tourists to have their receipts ready and the items subject to tariffs readily available for inspection if they decide to do so.
• There is no formal process (as of now) to deal with the higher volumes expected this season. They will endeavour to have all four gates open at Fort on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
• Apparently, things like groceries have always been “tariffable,” but they never enforced that (until now), and Canada is now enforcing it as a retaliatory measure to US tariffs on Canadian goods.
• The tariff rate will be 25% plus 5% GST so, on a value of $100.00 Canadian, the tourist will pay a tariff of $30.00 Canadian.
• Any additional fuel (propane tanks, Jerry cans) and possibly fuel in the gas tank of a boat are, technically, subject to the tariffs. They may or may not charge for the gas in the tank on the boat.
• The only items not subject to a tariff are personal goods that will be brought back to USA after the visit – so tackle, gear, and clothing are all exempt. Things consumed while in Canada, however, are all subject to tariffs including groceries and fuel.
• If they bring in a consumable good that is NOT made in Canada, the USA, or Mexico, they MAY be charged an additional tariff of between 2% and 15% (on top of the 30%). This is at the officer’s discretion.
• In addition to having their receipts ready, tourists should have consumable goods easily inspectable, and they should separate any consumable goods made in CA, the US, or Mex separate from consumable goods made elsewhere e.g. China – as the latter are subject to additional duties/tariffs.
• The Superintendent told me to make sure the goods that belong to you are in your vehicle. Do Not put goods that are yours in a different car that may be travelling with you, as this will cause significant delays for the tourists in both vehicles.
• The tourists still get their personal exemption on tobacco and alcohol, but anything over will have both the tariff and duty applied—so even more than 30% on alcohol and tobacco over the personal exemption amount. You can buy alcohol in Canada to avoid this.
• Lastly, she said they understand the animosity this may create; however, she emphasized that CBSA doesn’t make the policies; they only enforce them. She told me being respectful when crossing will make things easier for both sides, and that they will treat people fairly and with respect if they are respectful back.”
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We too understand the extra hassle and headache this may cause, but please remember to be respectful, honest and ready with all proper documentation and receipts. Keep in mind this could add travel time to your trip, and to plan accordingly.
Thank you to all our guests that have reached out with questions, kind words and support. We know none of this is ideal, but we’re also here to help and assist you in any capacity we can. This will not last forever.
