The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) received a notice from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) advising stakeholders that as of March 15, 2021, import transactions of food commodities (meat, fish, dairy, eggs, processed eggs, processed fruits or vegetables, honey, maple and, fresh fruits or vegetables) will automatically be rejected by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) when transmitted electronically, unless a valid Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) licence is obtained by importers moving goods into the country.

Importers must obtain their SFC licence before presenting their shipment at the border and will not be able to obtain an SFC licence at the border if needed. Shipments may be refused/rejected entry into Canada by CFIA if importers have not met this requirement, potentially causing delays for trucks crossing the border.

CTA is recommending that carriers that move food products that may fall under the SFC licence requirements are encouraged to reach out to their customers to ensure that they are in compliance prior to March 15.

Members can also direct their customers to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website for further information, and consult the CFIA’s website for further details on commercially importing food to Canada.