Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is the government authority who administers and enforces more than 90 acts, regulations and international agreements on behalf of other federal departments and agencies.  Among them are Customs Act, Customs Tariff, Export and Import Permits Act, Food and Drugs Act, Prohibited and Restricted Goods, etc.

Over the recent years, regulation changes have resulted in expanding information requirements, greater enforcement of customs responsibilities for all importers and exporters, and tighter timelines for information required prior to the release of goods. Compliance audits have also been incorporated into all of the CBSA programs, and non-compliance may result in penalties to the University as dictated under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS).

The risks related to customs non-compliance are not only financial, they can spill over to affect reputation, eligibility fo research grants, and the quality of research and academic programs.  In a worst case scenario, a facility could be shut down and related certifications, licensing or permits could be revoked.

To learn more about customs legislations, visit Canada Border Services Agency website.