International trade
International trade is the exchange of goods and services across national borders. Its legal framework covers customs and tariffs, import and export controls, sanctions, trade remedies such as anti-dumping duties, and trade agreements. In Canada these matters are federal, not provincial.
How BC law treats it
Customs, trade remedies, sanctions and export controls are federal under the Customs Act, the Special Import Measures Act, the Special Economic Measures Act and the Export and Import Permits Act. Canada, not BC, enters trade agreements such as CUSMA and CPTPP.
What it means for your business
A BC importer or exporter should confirm tariff classification, origin rules and any permit or sanctions requirements before shipping.
Risks and common mistakes
Misclassifying goods or misstating origin can lead to reassessment of duties and penalties from the Canada Border Services Agency.
Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
