Contact Us
Contact Info for CANADA & USA
CALL SUPPORT CANADA
+1 (437) 988-3189
+1 (519) 993-3442
CALL SUPPORT USA
+1 (484) 632-0359
+1 (437) 988-3189
EMAIL US
trade@mmstargroup.com
CANADA OFFICE
587 Hanlon Creek Blvd, Unit 19, Guelph, ON N1C 0B3
USA OFFICE
55 Carter Drive, Suite 201, Edison NJ 08817
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Contact Info for INDIA
CALL SUPPORT INDIA
+91 78800 98977
+91 83083 04300
EMAIL US
trade@mmstargroup.com
INDORE OFFICE
N-83, Anoop Nagar, Indore, Madhya Pradesh-452011
DELHI OFFICE
807-Vishwa Deep Tower, District Centre Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are FMCG products in the context of Canadian imports?
FMCG includes:
- Packaged foods & beverages
- Personal care products
- Cosmetics
- Household cleaning products
- Health products
Different categories are regulated by different Canadian authorities.
2. Do I need a business number to import into Canada?
Yes. You must obtain a Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency.
You also need to register an import/export account (RM account) linked to your BN.
3. Which government agencies regulate FMCG imports?
Main authorities include:
- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) – Customs clearance & duties
- Health Canada – Regulates cosmetics, health products, some consumer goods
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) – Food products
- Competition Bureau – Labeling & marketing compliance
4. Do I need an import license?
It depends on the product:
- Food products → Require Safe Food for Canadians (SFC) license from Canadian Food Inspection Agency
- Natural health products → Need product licensing from Health Canada
- Cosmetics → Require Cosmetic Notification Form submission to Health Canada
- Household goods → May not require a license but must meet safety regulations
5. What labeling requirements must FMCG products meet?
Canada has strict bilingual labeling laws:
- English and French labeling required
- Ingredient list (for food & cosmetics)
- Metric units
- Country of origin
- Allergen declarations (for food)
Food labeling must comply with CFIA regulations. Non-compliant labels may result in shipment refusal.
6. Are there duties and taxes on FMCG imports?
Yes. You may need to pay:
- Customs duties (based on HS code)
- GST (5%)
- Possible provincial sales tax (PST) or HST
Duty rates depend on:
- Product classification
- Country of origin
- Trade agreements (e.g., USMCA)
7. Do I need a customs broker?
Not mandatory, but highly recommended. A licensed broker helps with:
- Tariff classification
- Documentation
- Duty calculation
- Compliance
8. What documents are required for import clearance?
Common documents include:
- Commercial invoice
- Bill of lading / Air waybill
- Packing list
- Certificate of origin
- Import permits (if applicable)
- Product formulation details (for regulated goods)
9. Are there product safety standards for FMCG?
Yes.
- Cosmetics must comply with ingredient restrictions under Health Canada
- Cleaning products may need hazard labeling (WHMIS compliance)
- Food must meet CFIA safety standards
Failure to comply can result in product seizure or recall.
10. How long does customs clearance take?
- Standard shipments: 1–3 business days
- If inspection required: 5–10+ days
Delays occur if documentation or labeling is incomplete.
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