Tariff War Impact: U.S. Shopping Trips Just Got More Expensive for Canadians

Canadians who frequently cross the U.S. border for shopping may now face steeper costs when bringing goods back home. In response to American tariffs on Canadian exports, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has introduced a 25% surtax on a variety of U.S. products, affecting both personal and commercial imports.

The new tariff, effective immediately, applies to commercial shipments, mail and courier imports, as well as personal purchases exceeding duty-free exemptions.

“These countermeasures will apply to commercial shipments, goods imported by mail or courier, and goods imported by individual travellers above their personal exemptions,” said Rebecca Purdy, senior spokesperson for the CBSA.

The surtax will remain in place until the U.S. removes its trade restrictions on Canadian goods, Purdy confirmed.

A broad range of everyday items is now subject to the 25% tariff, including:

• Groceries

• Clothing and footwear

• Cosmetics and personal care items

• Alcoholic beverages

For Canadian travellers, exemptions vary based on the duration of their trip. Those returning after more than 24 hours can bring back up to $200 worth of goods duty-free—excluding alcohol and tobacco. The list of exemptions and limits can be found here.

Regardless of exemptions, all U.S.-purchased goods must be declared upon re-entry into Canada.

“The CBSA requires travellers to pay any applicable duties or surtaxes at the port of entry,” the agency said. “For goods shipped through mail or courier, payment will be collected upon delivery.”

The agency also advised travellers to come prepared with travel documents and receipts to expedite processing times. Those flying into Canada are encouraged to use the Advance Declaration system before arrival.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the countermeasures in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping 25% tariffs on Canadian exports, initially targeting $30 billion worth of American imports.

However, following discussions with manufacturers and the Canadian government, Trump granted a one-month exemption for the auto industry, a critical sector for both economies.

The CBSA acknowledged the rapidly evolving nature of the trade negotiations.

“We operate in an environment that changes daily, and we are prepared to adapt as needed,” the agency said in a statement.

With no immediate resolution in sight, Canadian travellers and businesses importing goods from the U.S. should prepare for continued tariffs. As negotiations unfold, consumers may need to rethink their cross-border shopping habits or look for domestic alternatives to avoid extra costs.

For now, the message is clear—bringing U.S. goods into Canada could come at a much higher price.