If you’re importing food into Canada, one of the key roles you’ll need to understand is that of the SFCR importer of record. This designation comes with specific responsibilities under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR), and getting it right is essential for avoiding compliance headaches.
But there’s more to it now. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has introduced a new system called CARM, which stands for CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management initiative. It’s designed to modernize how duties and taxes are collected, and it’s changing how businesses interact with CBSA. From registering online to posting security and submitting declarations, CARM is now a critical piece of the import process.
In this blog, we’ll explain what an SFCR importer of record does, how CARM fits in, and what steps you need to take to stay compliant and avoid delays. Let’s dive in.
Understanding the SFCR importer of record
The SFCR importer of record is the entity legally responsible for ensuring that imported food products meet the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) and other applicable laws. This includes holding the correct food import licence, maintaining traceability records, and ensuring food safety standards are met.
Under the SFCR, most businesses importing food for commercial sale must obtain a licence issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). This requirement applies whether you’re a distributor, broker, or manufacturer. The licence confirms your business is authorized to import food into Canada and that it maintains the necessary traceability and food safety systems.
Whoever acts as the importer of record, whether it’s your business or a designated partner like Quality Smart Solutions, is accountable for the accuracy of customs declarations and the proper classification of goods. You can find detailed information about licensing eligibility, conditions, and the application process on the CFIA’s official food licence page.
What is CARM and how does it affect food importers?
CARM, or the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management system, is a new digital platform being phased in to streamline importation processes. Once fully implemented, CARM will require all importers, including food importers, to:
- Register their business in the CARM Client Portal
- Post financial security (such as a surety bond)
- Pay duties and taxes directly through the portal
- Classify goods and manage accounting declarations online
This means that the SFCR importer of record will now have greater responsibility in digital declarations and financial accountability. It also adds urgency to ensuring you have the right partners and systems in place.
For details on the CARM initiative, visit CBSA’s official CARM page.
Why accurate classification and licensing matters
Being an SFCR importer of record isn’t just a box to check. Misclassifying goods, skipping licensing, or failing to register properly in CARM could result in:
- Import delays or refusals at the border
- Administrative Monetary Penalties (AMPs)
- Suspension or cancellation of your import privileges
That’s why many businesses choose to work with regulatory experts to ensure everything is done correctly the first time.
How regulatory experts can support you
At Quality Smart Solutions, we help importers simplify the licensing process and avoid regulatory pitfalls. Whether you’re applying for your SFCR licence, adjusting your operations for CARM, or preparing documentation, our team is ready to guide you.
You don’t need to navigate this alone. We offer tailored compliance solutions so you can focus on growing your business without worrying about setbacks at the border.
We offer SFCR Food Licence Services designed to help you meet all regulatory requirements with clarity and confidence. Need help now? Contact us for a free consultation.
