Trade policy
Trade policy is a government's overall approach to international trade, including tariffs, import and export rules, trade agreements, trade remedies such as anti-dumping duties, and export promotion. It is a matter of public policy rather than a legal term, and in Canada it is primarily set by the federal government.
How BC law treats it
Trade policy is implemented through federal laws such as the Customs Tariff, SC 1997, c 36 and the Special Import Measures Act, RSC 1985, c S-15, and through international agreements. Provinces influence trade through their own programs and areas of jurisdiction but do not set tariffs.
What it means for your business
Changes in tariffs, surtaxes or countermeasures can quickly alter your costs if you import or export, so monitor federal notices.
Risks and common mistakes
Contracts that do not allocate the risk of new tariffs or duties can leave one party absorbing a sudden cost increase.
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.
