Canada’s push to diversify its trade moved forward on three fronts in late October and early November: an agreement with Indonesia takes effect next month, a new agreement with the United Arab Emirates was signed, and Canada and China extended their tariff arrangements through 2028.
Canada–Indonesia CEPA enters into force December 1
Global Affairs Canada has confirmed that the Canada–Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will enter into force on December 1, 2026. Importers sourcing from Indonesia should watch for the CBSA’s implementing guidance on the new tariff treatment and the proof of origin needed to claim preferential rates on goods imported from December 1.
Read about the Canada–Indonesia CEPA on Global Affairs Canada
Canada and the UAE sign a CEPA
On October 27, Canada and the United Arab Emirates signed the Canada–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The government says the agreement will reduce or eliminate tariffs on more than 99% of current Canadian exports to the UAE once fully implemented. It is expected to enter into force in 2027. Nothing changes at the border until then.
Read the Prime Minister’s announcement
Canada and China extend their tariff arrangements through 2028
On November 4, Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu announced that China will extend favourable market access for Canadian canola meal, peas, lobsters and crab to the end of 2028. In March, China suspended its tariffs on those goods until the end of 2026. On the import side, Canada is extending its remission of surtaxes on certain Chinese steel and aluminum products not made in Canada to the end of 2028. Importers already relying on that remission can expect it to continue past 2026.
