Free Trade Agreements (Some Conditions—and Tariffs—Apply)”
📍 Canada / USA Edition
Free trade between Canada and the U.S. is one of the world’s most celebrated economic relationships. But if you’ve ever imported goods under CUSMA/USMCA and been hit with a duty, you’ve likely asked: “Wait… isn’t this supposed to be free?”
The truth? “Free trade” doesn’t mean “tariff-free” for everything. It means preferential access—if you meet strict rules of origin, file the right paperwork, and avoid the many sector-specific exclusions.
Tariffs can still apply if you misclassify, miss documentation, or if your product doesn’t qualify under the agreement. And that’s before dealing with safeguards, quotas, and retaliatory duties.
Free Trade comes with 'guard rails' where compliance is king, and the “free” part comes with a side of legal fine print.
So yes—we 'sort of' have free trade (well, for this week anyway).
Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) Customs Documents Professional
1moAs long as Trump is in the White House, Canada, like other countries around the world, needs to be on high alert. This guy is unstable, unpredictable, and really has it in for anyone who goes against him or his administration. Good for Canada for not backing down. Fight and we will win in the end.
Trade Advisor | Helping organizations grow—through compliance, connection, and communication | Proud Energy Ambassador
1moI mean, I don't mind watching the consequences - if Canada doesn't do the sur-tax. I am on board to measure the damage. I am thinking it be like post-war where International Trade wasn't the question. It was "how am I going to feed my family". I am afraid we are going to see fatalities Alan. Your thoughts?
Marketing Manager at GHY International
1mo"Dairy? Don’t even ask." 😆 . Love this - "Free Trade comes with 'guard rails' where compliance is king, and the “free” part comes with a side of legal fine print."