The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is introducing new measures to strengthen import controls for organic product import compliance. As part of a two-phase project, Phase 1 was successfully implemented in November 2024, and Phase 2 is set to take effect on May 26, 2025. Does your business import organic foods into Canada? If so, you must prepare for these changes to avoid supply chain disruptions.
What’s Changing?
In Phase 2, CFIA will require importers and brokers to submit a digital copy of their organic certificate. This document must be included in the Integrated Import Declaration (IID), also known as the CBSA Single Window system. If an importer has already provided the certificate, they can use a Unique Reference Number (URN) instead. This step simplifies future shipments.
Key Updates Effective May 26, 2025
Importers and brokers must upload a digital copy of the organic certificate during the IID submission.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will issue a URN for each uploaded certificate, which can be reused for multiple shipments.
Import declarations can contain multiple URNs where applicable.
Failure to include a digital certificate or URN will result in a rejected import declaration until compliance is met.
How This Affects Importers and Brokers
If your business is involved in organic product import, these regulatory changes will directly impact your import process. Here’s what you need to do to remain compliant:
Ensure You Have a Digital Copy of Your Organic Certificate – This document must be readily available and uploaded at the time of import declaration.
Familiarize Yourself with AIRS Updates – CFIA’s Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) now includes newly added organic products. Importers must stay up to date with these additions.
Use the URN System Efficiently – If you have already provided an organic certificate for a shipment, use the assigned URN for future declarations to streamline the process.
Avoid Delays and Rejections – Missing documentation will result in import declaration rejections, which can disrupt business operations and lead to delays in product distribution.
Stay Compliant with Quality Smart Solutions
Navigating new organic product import regulations can be complex, but Quality Smart Solutions is here to help. Our experts provide guidance on regulatory compliance, helping businesses meet CFIA and CBSA requirements seamlessly. Ensure your business stays ahead of compliance changes. Contact us today to learn how we can support your import processes!
For further details, refer to the official CFIA announcement or contact the Canada Organic Regime team at OPR-RPB@inspection.gc.ca.
