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Standing Committee on International Trade (CIIT): Study on the CBSA's Assessment and Revenue Management Project (CARM) (March 19, 2024)

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Opening remarks

Good afternoon Chair and Honourable members of the committee. Thank you for having us here today.

I'm Ted Gallivan, Executive Vice-President of the Canada Border Services Agency. I am joined by Jennifer Lutfallah, Vice President of the CBSA's Commercial and Trade Branch, and Mike Leahy, Director General of Commercial Projects.

Over the past five years, the CBSA has experienced an unprecedented period of growth and complexity in our commercial and trade operations. Last year, we assessed over $39 billion in duties and taxes.

The number of shipments and the value of e-commerce goods that cross our borders have increased substantially with more than 132 million courier shipments last year.

At our land borders, the volume and value of imports entering Canada on commercial trucks is growing. In , we processed over 5 million commercial trucks into Canada.

On the marine side, the number of containers we examine continues to trend upward with a total of almost 1.5 million last year alone. Similarly, in the commercial air stream, we are dealing with and adapting to a surge in e-commerce goods.

Through all of this, we are also tackling new and evolving threats that are trying to penetrate our borders and endanger our communities such as fentanyl precursors and other troubling products.

The Accelerated Commercial Release Operations Support System, known as ACROSS, is the system we use ahead of releasing goods. It provides release recommendations and other information to support our operations.

We also use an electronic tool called “eManifest” to allow the trade community to transmit their pre-arrival information electronically through an internet-based portal.

ACROSS and eManifest are separate and distinct from CARM, which is an accounting system.

The next release of CARM, which will launch in , will replace a 36 year-old legacy system that is at its end of life. The current systems are so old, and expertise in their maintenance is so difficult to find, that the only path forward is full replacement of the systems – to not do so would generate significant risk to the CBSA's ability to assess duties and taxes at the border.

This urgent need to replace aging IT systems was highlighted in a report from the Auditor General last year. In addition to responding to those recommendations, CARM also responds directly to recommendations made by the Auditor General in and in to improve the CBSA's revenue assessment and collection systems following findings that importers misclassified up to 20 percent of the goods imported into Canada.

CARM will respond to four key objectives:

  • Replacing an aged system and introducing new digitized tools
  • Introducing regulatory changes to better control revenue and payments
  • Making voluntary compliance easier while also improving targeted compliance verification activities
  • Allowing the CBSA to clear most goods prior to payment, which means we can keep up with the speed of commerce

During the lifespan of this project we have conducted over 70 rounds of stakeholder consultations and bi-weekly meetings to make sure we get things right. We have also held two open CARM Experience Simulations, where industry was invited to test the system.

Through these consultations, we've received valuable feedback and input that will help us optimize roll out.

$370 million in funding was set aside for CARM in . The project is being rolled out in sequential releases. This approach includes important contingencies so that goods continue to flow freely and the border isn't impacted.

Release 0 (zero) and Release 1 have both been implemented already, providing registration and onboarding services for the trade industry similar to online portals offered by Service Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency and Canadian banks.

Currently, small businesses need to work through a broker or maintain a copy of paper records submitted to the CBSA in order to have a complete picture of their statement of account. With CARM, all businesses will be able to view their statement of account via the Client Portal 24/7. Additional benefits to Canadian Businesses include: improved system stability and performance and a more level playing field where the same rules apply across all sectors and companies. The government will ultimately calculate customs and duties owed to ensure fairness.

From a Government of Canada standpoint, CARM will give us increased control over revenue and payments, the ability to more accurately access and leverage our data, allowing for improved targeted verification, replacing the current model which relies on a combination of paper and electronic data sources.

We understand that transitioning to CARM is a big change. With any big change, there will be apprehension and we acknowledge that there are some partners in the business community who are concerned about this coming change.

To support all of our partners and ensure a smooth transition, we have and will continue to allow additional space and leeway for transition planning, further testing as needed, and we have planned and forecasted for issues that may emerge during an iterative transformation of this magnitude.

We are also dedicating people and funding to continue supporting our transition towards a more modern approach to collect duties and taxes on goods imported into Canada.

In closing, this committee's study provides us with another valuable source of input that will help us build and optimize a world class assessment and revenue management system.

Thank you. We welcome and we would be happy to answer any questions from the Honourable members.

Questions and answers

General

What is CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)?
CARM is a multi-year project to replace the CBSA's 36-year old legacy system used to administer the imposition or levying of duties and taxes at the border, as well as eight additional legacy systems currently in use by the Agency. CARM will be responsible for the tracking of approximately $40 billion per year in duties and taxes and protect and grow approximately $800 billion in annual cross-border trade.

Why is CARM necessary?
With CARM, the CBSA will be introducing changes to how it does business. These changes are being introduced to help improve compliance with trade rules, reduce lost revenue, and simplify the import process.

The necessity of CARM has been underscored by successive audits undertaken by the Office of the Auditor General which have found deficiencies in the CBSA's ability to accurately assess all customs duties, major inefficiencies in Agency revenue systems, and highlighted the numerous disadvantages of maintaining aging systems on old and outdated infrastructure.

Who is the CBSA working with to develop and implement CARM?
Deloitte has been contracted to design, develop, implement, and provide ongoing infrastructure and application management services for CARM.

Key federal partners include the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) – which has provided procurement support for CARM and serves as the contracting authority – and the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, which has facilitated oversight of the project.

What benefits will CARM provide?
CARM will provide a number of immediate and ongoing benefits for the Government of Canada and Canadian businesses:

  • Increased efficiency through the elimination of paper-based and manual processes – specifically with respect to billing, registration, enrollment, and re-assessment
  • Increased Government of Canada revenues through the facilitation of importer compliance with better and more accessible tools that will assist importers to submit declarations that are true, accurate, and complete
  • Increased transparency through a modern system that will provide a more comprehensive view of importer activities and history
  • Increased functionality for importers through the ability to enroll in commercial programs, submit accounting documents and upload supporting documents, and receive notifications through their CARM Client Portal account
  • Increased reporting functionality through a centralized data reporting system and real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing for recognition of patterns and trends

Will the implementation of Release 2 in have an effect on border wait times?
The system used in the release of goods – ACROSS – will not be changing with the implementation of CARM and will continue to operate. Release 2 of CARM, which is an accounting system, has been rigorously tested with over 7,600 test scripts being executed over the course of multiple testing cycles. This has included testing for integration with other systems, penetration testing (simulating a cyberattack), and simulated user loads.

Moreover, the CBSA has, and continues to implement a range of measures to ensure that Release 2 does not impact border processing. These include the launch of the CARM Experience Simulation, system outage contingency planning, increased staffing and resource availability, and the introduction of transitional measures to support the continued movement of legitimate goods across the border as Trade Chain Partners adjust to Release 2.

Has the CBSA consulted with industry on the design and implementation of CARM?
The CBSA has consulted broadly with Trade Chain Partners, including: commercial importers; customs brokers; exporters; carriers; couriers; freight forwarders; duty free shop operators; customs bonded warehouse operators; sufferance warehouse operators; surety companies; and, financial institutions. Furthermore, engagement has also taken place with representatives from a variety of associations, including: the Canadian Federation of Independent Business; Importer and Exporter Canada; and, the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers.

Trade Chain Partners have been kept up to date on key features of CARM through monthly webinars, regular updates to the CBSA website, direct outreach, and participation in the CBSA's Trade Chain Partner Working Group. The CBSA also launched the CARM Experience Simulation, allowing selected partners to gain experience within the CARM environment. Feedback has been used to improve CARM functionalities, shape project planning and implementation date decision making, and inform the picture for future CARM releases and functionalities.

Will all importers of commercial goods require a CARM Client Portal account?
Yes, following the launch of Release 2 in , all commercial importers, even those who use a customs broker or other third party service provider, will be required to register in the CARM Client Portal. During the broker business number transition period, brokers may use their own business number to submit accounting for goods released should a client not yet have registered in the CARM Client Portal.

As of how many importers have registered in the CARM Client Portal?
As of , approximately 56,000 importers have registered to CARM through the creation of a CARM Client Portal account. This includes a subset – 2,550 of them – who are responsible for approximately 86% of the volume of imported goods through the commercial stream. There are an estimated 80,000 active importers each month.

The CBSA continues to work with the trade chain community to encourage the registration of Trade Chain Partners in the CARM Client Portal via CARM in person registration days, targeted webinars, and mail-outs from both the CBSA and partner intermediaries such as the CRA and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Public facing terminals with access to the CARM Client Portal will be deployed in and provide an opportunity for small businesses who transact directly with the CBSA to register in the portal. Following Release 2 in , increased resourcing and service levels will be available, including at ports of entry, to help facilitate Trade Chain Partner onboarding to the CARM Client Portal.

How many small importers have a CARM Client Portal account?
Of the approximately 56,000 importers with a CARM Client Portal account as of , about 95% are small or medium sized importers. Through direct outreach and in-person registration events, the CBSA is working to onboard the top 2,150 small importers (those that present entries in person) to the CARM Client Portal. Approximately 34% of these importers are currently registered in the portal.

Transition to CARM

Is CARM being released in a 'big bang' approach on ?
CARM is a multi-phased project which is being completed over two phases and multiple releases. The first phase, which consisted of the development and release of the Accounts Receivable Ledger, was implemented in 2016. The Accounts Receivable Ledger enabled the CBSA's transition away from multiple non-integrated accounting systems that were heavily reliant upon manual data manipulation. The second phase consists of three major releases: Release 0, Release 1, and Release 2:

  • Release 0 was launched in , setting the foundation for future releases by migrating the Accounts Receivable Ledger to the cloud
  • Release 1 was launched in , introducing the CARM Client Portal and enabling self service account access for importers, brokers, and trade consultants

Release 2, which is scheduled to launch on will have the greatest impact on the ways in which the CBSA and Trade Chain Partners do business. Recognizing this, the CBSA has taken several important steps to make sure that it gets Release 2 right, including:

  • Taking business and partner readiness feedback into consideration when finalizing launch dates
  • Conducting two cycles of the CARM Experience Simulation
  • Establishing a 180 day transition period under the Release Prior to Payment Transition Plan

What measures will be in place to supports Trade Chain Partners in the transition to Release 2?
The CBSA will be implementing a range of measures to support the trade chain community in the transition to CARM as the system used to administer the imposition or levying of duties and taxes at the border. These include:

  • Importers with a CARM Client Portal account or a history of importing commercial goods into Canada within the past four years and an account in good standing will be granted a 180 day period within which goods may still be released prior to payment of duties and taxes without requiring the importer to give a security
  • A broker business number transition period that will support the use of broker business numbers to submit accounting on behalf of their importer clients who have not yet registered in the CARM Client Portal
  • The installation of terminals with access to the CARM Client Portal at 73 sites across the country
  • Increased support from Deloitte in anticipation of higher than normal service request volumes
  • Expanded staffing and CARM Client Support Helpdesk capacity

In addition, Trade Chain Partners will play a significant role in helping to bring about a smooth transition to Release 2. Through a variety of forums including the CBSA's website, direct outreach, and monthly webinars, the CBSA has been regularly engaging Trade Chain Partners with the aim of raising their awareness of, and preparedness for, Release 2. Significantly, concerns raised by Trade Chain Partners regarding the busy nature of the fall shopping season played a key role in shaping the CBSA's decision to delay the Release 2 launch date to .

What is the business continuity plan if CARM suffers a delay at launch, or in the event of a prolonged systems outage?
In the event that Release 2 is unable to launch on , the cutover period and the operational procedures that accompany it would be extended. Any issues that may arise upon the launch of Release 2 will be addressed expeditiously, with resources available 24/7 to support cutover and launch activities.

Will there be a transition period from the legacy systems to CARM?
The CBSA has introduced several measures to facilitate a seamless transition from existing business processes to CARM. CARM will become the system used to administer the imposition or levying of duties and taxes at the border on .

What is the process to create a CARM Client Portal account and how long does it take?
Onboarding can be completed in as little as ten minutes, should the Trade Chain Partner have the required information on hand. In order to register in the CARM Client Portal, Trade Chain Partners will require a previous B3 – Customs Coding Form, a Statement of Account, past payment information, and information about the legal entity (registered name and address). Once the required information has been provided, the portal will prompt users with a series of questions aimed at ensuring that they are authorized to create a business account within the portal. Trade Chain Partners seeking support in creating a CARM Client Portal account can consult guidance documents available on the CBSA's website, or contact the CARM Client Support Helpdesk via an online contact form or toll-free phone number.

How will late accounting penalties be assessed during the transition from the legacy system to CARM?
As part of the cutover from the existing legacy systems to CARM, legacy systems will be unavailable over the course of several days in April and . Discretion will be used to ensure that no late accounting penalties are issued respecting transactions negatively affected by the unavailability of legacy systems.

Project and release schedule

Is CARM being delivered on schedule?
Release 2 is on track to be delivered on its scheduled launch date on . The CARM schedule has changed in response to the need to address the complexity and magnitude of the changes being implemented across CARM's multiple releases, as well as the CBSA's desire to make sure that it gets CARM right and remains responsive to the concerns of partners and stakeholders, including those within the trade chain community.

What has CARM cost to develop?
The total project expenditure authority to develop CARM, since fiscal year 2010 to 2011, is $526.8 million. As of , $438.4 million has been spent to develop CARM. This multi-year investment, while significant, is approximately equivalent to the value of the duties and taxes assessed at the border every four days and is in line with investments made by other G20 countries.

The total project expenditure authority to maintain CARM, since fiscal year 2015 to 2016, when the Accounts Receivable Ledger was launched, is $179.5 million. As of , $118.4 million has been spent to maintain CARM.

Development: Fiscal year 2010 to 2011 to
Expenditure authority Expenditures
$526.8 million $438.4 million
Maintenance: Fiscal year 2015 to 2016 to
Expenditure authority Expenditures
$179.5 million $118.4 million

How does the CARM project compare to similar projects internationally?
While exact comparisons are difficult to make, a sampling of similar projects suggests that budgets and timeframes for comparable projects internationally are on a similar scale.

Country/Jurisdiction Cost Development time
Canada $438.4 million spent as of 14 years
United States USD $4.8 billion (estimated)
(around CAD $6.4 billion)		 17 years to full deployment (2001 to 2018)
Mexico Approximately CAD $140 million (VUCEM 1 and 2) 2012 to 2018 (VUCEM 1 and 2). Ongoing improvements and new functionalities
European Union 2014 to 2020: €522.9 million (around CAD $804 million)
2021 to 2027: €950 million (around CAD $1.4 billion)		 2003 to 2025 (estimated)
United Kingdom £180 million to build a UK Single Trade Window (around CAD $304 million)
£838 million to build the Customs Declaration Service (around CAD $1.4 billion)		 Since 2018
Australia AUD $879 million (estimated)
(around CAD $794 million)		 2001 to 2015 (continuing improvements)

How was Deloitte selected to work on CARM?
In partnership with PSPC, the CBSA ran an open procurement process to identify a business transformation and technology firm for this project. As per Government of Canada procurement best practices, the CBSA and PSPC consulted extensively with companies interested in the CARM Phase 2 contract. A letter of interest was posted to initiate engagement to which 13 suppliers responded, 11 of which went on to participate in one-on-one meetings with the CBSA to learn more about the planned requirements for the system. Four firms proceeded to submit responses at the conclusion of the Invitation to Qualify phase.

Following these engagements, a competitive Request for Proposal process was initiated. At the conclusion of the Request for Proposal process, two bidders submitted bids. On , the CBSA entered into a contractual arrangement with Deloitte to design, develop, implement, and provide ongoing infrastructure and application management support services for the CARM Phase 2 solution.

CARM technology and support

What systems are currently in place to support the administration of the assessment of duties and taxes at the border?
CARM will be replacing a number of systems currently in place to administer the assessment of duties and taxes at the border. The principal system that CARM will be replacing, the Customs Commercial System, is 36 years old, difficult to modify, expensive to maintain, and at significant risk of failure. Other systems that will be decommissioned and retired following the Release 2 launch include the Tariff Publishing and History System, the Administrative Monetary Penalty System, and the Batch Accounting Reporting K32 System.

Where is CARM data stored and is it managed in a secure way?
Consistent with Treasury Board of Canada policies, CARM data is stored in a secure cloud environment hosted by a Shared Services Canada approved cloud services provider. Measures in place to ensure the protection of CARM data include the use of encryption on all CARM data stored in the cloud, access controls within the solution, the use of multi-factor authentication when logging in to the CARM Client Portal, the deactivation of accounts that have been inactive for over 180 days, and the requirement for importers to delegate authority to their brokers or other third party service providers. Moreover, each CARM release is required to complete a rigorous, three part security assessment process prior to receiving its Authority to Operate.

How has Release 2 been tested?
Release 2, the release scheduled to be launched in , has successfully completed multiple testing cycles, including:

  • Systems integration testing, during which over 900 test scripts were executed
  • Deep cycle testing, during which over 500 test scripts were executed and the integrations between Release 2, existing CBSA systems, and Trade Chain Partner systems were tested
  • User acceptance testing, where business users validated that the solution was fit for purpose and during which over 3,400 test scripts were executed
  • Two cycles of the CARM Experience Simulation

Testers for Release 2 were pulled from across the CBSA, Government of Canada, and industry, and included the CRA, Descartes, Livingston, United Parcel Service, and General Motors.

What is the CARM Experience Simulation?
Initiated by the CBSA and launched in early 2023, the CARM Experience Simulation is designed to provide end users with hands-on experience with the CARM solution. Within the CARM Experience Simulation, users have been able to run business scenarios, trial training materials and standard operating procedures, and improve their readiness for Release 2. Feedback gathered from participants has proven valuable in informing the CBSA's understanding of readiness for Release 2, as well as in identifying potential future functionalities for the CARM solution.

Will the implementation of Release 2 have an effect on the use of Commercial Cash Entry Processing System terminals?
The Agency's Commercial Cash Entry Processing System terminals will be replaced by terminals with access to the CARM Client Portal. These terminals, which will provide functionalities not available within the Commercial Cash Entry Processing System terminals, will be in place at 73 sites across the country prior to the launch of Release 2. Terminals with access to the CARM Client Portal will provide Trade Chain Partners with a means to register onsite in the CARM Client Portal in the event that they have not done so prior to arriving at the border.

If there is a network or service outage that results in the temporary unavailability of CARM, how will this affect commercial importers and border wait times?
The CBSA's System Outage Contingency Plan is a publicly available document that sets out the procedures for the release of goods during a CBSA system outage including:

  • When and how Trade Chain Partners are notified of an outage
  • The circumstances under which accounting time limits will be extended
  • Requirements for paper contingency forms
  • The establishment of buffer times following system outages to facilitate a smooth return to regular operations

Processes and procedures established under the System Outage Contingency Plan are designed to minimize the impact of system outages on the flow of legitimate goods across the border. The CBSA is working to update the existing System Outage Contingency Plan to incorporate information on revised border processes in the instance of a CARM outage.

What happens if duties and taxes imposed on imported goods are calculated incorrectly by CARM? What appeal or recourse options are available?
Trade Chain Partners who believe that duties and taxes have been incorrectly calculated by CARM will be able to submit a ticket via the CARM Client Support Helpdesk. Each ticket will be reviewed and should there be an error with the calculation, a system correction will be issued to correct the error. In some instances, a Trade Chain Partner may disagree with the CBSA's determination that no calculation error has been made. In those instances, the applicable recourse available to the Trade Chain Partner will be dependant on the facts.

Policies and financial surety

What is 'Importer of Record' and why has the CBSA chosen to implement this change?
In 2020, the Canadian International Trade Tribunal released a decision that affected the CBSA's ability to assess revenue on e-commerce in situations where an intermediary such as a customs broker had used their business number to account for the goods. This decision ran counter to the CBSA's longstanding practice of considering the importer of record as the primary contact and holder for revenue liabilities.

Accordingly, in , amendments to section 17 of the Customs Act received Royal Assent. These amendments helped to clarify who is liable for the payment of duties and taxes, as well as reducing lost revenue arising from the use of broker business numbers when accounting for imports, a practice which has become more common with the rise of e-commerce. Once the amendments come into force, the person identified as the importer on accounting documents (i.e. the "importer of record") will be liable for any owing duties and taxes. These changes are entirely separate from legislative and regulatory changes related to CARM.

The CBSA will be implementing a transition period following Release 2 during which broker business numbers may continue to be used to represent importers who have not yet registered in the CARM Client Portal.

Why do all commercial importers require a business number?
The requirement for Canadian businesses to obtain a Business Number from the CRA is a requirement of the Government of Canada Business Number Adoption Strategy.

The requirement for importers to have an importer business number is not new. This requirement originates early in the commercial continuum with the release of commercial goods (commercial stream). This currently is, and will continue to be, prescribed information necessary for the release of goods. The CBSA has historically provided certain exceptions to this requirement and will continue to carry forward certain exceptions following Release 2. In addition to this, the CBSA will be introducing interim policy measures to further support industry's transition to CARM.

Why are commercial importers no longer allowed to use the financial surety of their customs broker to obtain the release of goods they import prior to the payment of duties and taxes?
The practice of using broker bonds for importer security undermines the CBSA's ability to appropriately mitigate risks to Crown revenue. Under the current approach, if the CBSA called on a broker's bond, each importer using that broker's bond – even those importers without an amount owing or a debt due – would lose that bond and not be able to obtain the release of goods prior to payment until a new bond is posted. This would adversely affect the flow of goods crossing the border. Under the importer liability model which is being introduced in , the CBSA will be able to call on an importer's security without preventing other importers from obtaining release prior to payment for goods they import.

If an importer has a CARM Client Portal account do they need a customs broker?
Customs brokers provide a wide range of professional services and expertise to their clients. The decision as whether or not to engage the services of a customs broker or other third party service provider rests with each importer. When an importer has chosen to work with a customs broker or other third party service provider, the CARM Client Portal allows importers to delegate authority for their customs broker or third party service provider to transact on their behalf to the extent permitted by law. The introduction of CARM will not prevent importers from continuing to work with a customs broker to provide information to the CBSA via Electronic Data Interchange and benefit from Release on Minimum Documentation.

If Canadian importers receives an input tax credit, why is GST included in the calculation of the amount of security?
While the input tax credit may be available to some businesses in Canada, the credit is not granted automatically. Importers wishing to benefit from the input tax credit are still responsible for payment of GST at the time of import. Should an importer meet the requirements for the input tax credit, a claim may be made at time of tax filing with the CRA.

Including GST in the amount of security required to obtain the release prior to payment of duties for imported goods helps to protect Crown revenue. Duties and taxes imposed on imported goods are payable at the border when such amounts are owed. When goods are released prior to the payment of duties and taxes, the duty and tax amounts payable must be secured by way of a financial security. This is particularly important for the protection of Crown revenue in scenarios when an importer defaults at a later time on payments of duties or taxes that were not paid at the time of import.

What are the minimum and maximum amounts for security for importers participating in the Release Prior to Payment Program?
The minimum and maximum amounts for security under the Release Prior to Payment Program in will remain $5,000 and $10 million, respectively.

Alternatively, cash deposits will also be accepted for importers participating in the Release Prior to Payment Program. This option is designed to support small and infrequent importer participation in the program.

Will CARM treat resident and non-resident importers in the same way?
Resident and non-resident importers are treated the same under the changes being introduced with Release 2. The CBSA recognizes that some non-resident importers may experience difficulties in both registering for an account in the CARM Client Portal, as well as making payments. Accordingly, the CBSA has provided clarity around transitionary measures that will be in place to allow non-resident importers to account under a customs broker's business number until the non-resident importer has completed their registration in the CARM Client Portal. Furthermore, the CBSA has worked collaboratively with financial institutions to offer additional payment options; several alternative payment methods have been identified, including the continued usage of brokers to remit payments.

How will CARM affect the Courier Low Value Shipment Program?
The CBSA is aware of the concerns of the express carrier community that Release 2 could present challenges to their business model and the unimpeded flow of legitimate goods across the border. Release 2 transition planning allows for the use of a broker's business number to submit accounting documents when the importer has not yet registered on the CARM Client Portal. This, coupled with the Release Prior to Payment Transition Plan, which will allow Release Prior to Payment access for up to 180 days, will serve to mitigate any possible disturbances to the continued immediate release of goods which is both critical and necessary in the courier environment.

What impact will Release 2 have on importers that benefit from the Customs Self Assessment program?
The CBSA recognizes the impacts that Release 2 will have on some of our largest importers, many of whom are members of our Customs Self Assessment program and who today use their own systems to account for their shipments and determine duties and taxes owing to the Crown. The CBSA has taken a number of measures to maintain many of the benefits Customs Self Assessment importers currently experience and have incorporated them, when possible, within the CARM system. Within CARM, Customs Self Assessment importers will experience:

  • A new Commercial Accounting Declaration to account for goods that will replace the B3 form
  • A new CARM Statement of Account populated by the CBSA to replace the Revenue Summary Form; providing better clarity on account information
  • Online access to their accounts, transactional details (accounting, corrections, adjustments) and the Statement of Account
  • Expanded payment timelines and the ability to make corrections to accounting declarations (a new benefit)
  • Expedited adjustment processes

Additionally, Customs Self Assessment importers will continue to benefit from:

  • Expedited clearance processes at the border, supporting just-in-time delivery
  • Dedicated Free and Secure Lanes at designated ports of entry
  • Reduced examinations at the border
  • Dedicated Customs Self Assessment account representatives

Regulations

What regulatory changes has CARM required?
As per the Canada Gazette, Part II, the Government of Canada has published amendments to nine existing regulations under the Customs Act, three existing regulations under the Customs Tariff, and introduced one new regulation to enable CARM:

  • The new Financial Security (Electronic Means) Regulations is intended to facilitate a financial security regime that moves away from dependence on paper bonds and allows for security deposits and security arrangements between Trade Chain Partners and surety providers to be confirmed and communicated to the CBSA by electronic means
  • Regulatory amendments to enable electronic communication and payment are intended to allow Trade Chain Partners to communicate with the CBSA, and make payments, by electronic means; removing the requirement to engage with a specific CBSA representative at a specific physical location
  • Regulatory amendments to harmonize billing cycles are intended to provide more consistency between billing, accounting, and payment due dates for imported goods

How were the CARM regulatory changes developed and who was consulted?
On , the CARM regulatory package was pre-published in the Canada Gazette, Part I for a 45 day consultation period. During the consultation period, the public had the opportunity to view and submit comments on the proposed regulations. No substantive changes were made to the pre-published regulations as a result of the comments received; however, the CBSA continues to address comments and questions received through the CARM and Trade Chain Partner Working Groups as well as CARM social media channels and email distribution lists.

On , the CARM regulatory package was published in the Canada Gazette, Part II.

When will CARM regulations come into force?
Both the changes to existing regulations and the new financial security regulations will come into force at 3:00 am ET on .

The future of CARM

Will there be more releases of CARM?
Funds have been set aside for the maintenance and enhancement of CARM. Additional CARM releases and improvements will be implemented on an ongoing basis beyond . These releases will be aimed at improving CARM functionalities and processes for the benefit of the CBSA, Other Government Departments, and industry. So as to strike a balance between being responsive to an ever evolving environment, while also respecting the impacts that changes can have on Trade Chain Partners, the CBSA does not plan on implementing major releases more frequently than twice per year.

What new functionalities will new CARM releases bring?
Through Trade Chain Partner Working Groups, feedback received from the CARM Experience Simulation, and input provided by CBSA subject matter experts, a number of future CARM functionalities have been identified. These include enhancements to improve ease of use of the CARM Client Portal, the introduction of additional features for the delegation of authority, augmented automation and data integration, and expanded reporting capabilities.

Prior to any major release, the CBSA will engage with Trade Chain Partners on potential code changes or system integration changes which will result in updates to the Electronic Commerce Client Requirements Document. Releases will be required to pass through multiple testing cycles. Testing plans, which establish the testing approach and acceptance criteria for each release, will be developed in consultation with Trade Chain Partners.

Committee overview and members biographies

Committee mandate

The House of Commons Standing Committee on International Trade studies and reports on matters referred to it by the House of Commons. The committee can also initiate studies of subjects falling within its mandate. As a permanent committee established by the Standing Orders of the House of Commons, the committee may be asked to comment on legislation, departmental activities and spending, and other matters under its jurisdiction.

The general subject area of the committee includes the following:

  • international trade policy, including trade and investment liberalization, as well as Canada's economic relationship with other countries
  • Canadian international competitiveness, as well as the effects of global competition on Canadian firms and the Canadian economy
  • the global trade and investment environment, including the World Trade Organization, international markets and regional trade blocs

The federal departments and agencies under the committee's direct scrutiny include:

  • Global Affairs Canada (international trade component)
  • Export Development Canada
  • Canadian Commercial Corporation
  • Invest in Canada

Biographies of the committee members

The Honourable Judy Sgro (Chair)

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Humber River-Black Creek, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 1999
  • Re-elected: 2000, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2021
Professional background
  • Municipal Politics: North York City Council (1987 to 1994); Toronto City Council (1994 to 1999); At the municipal level, Sgro focused on poverty and crime reduction
  • Immigration: Minister of Citizenship and Immigration (2003 to 2005)
Key interests
  • Foreign direct investments
  • Canada-U.S. relations
  • Human rights
Parliamentary roles
  • Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Public Works and Government Services (2003)
  • Former Critic: National Revenue (2007); Human Resources and Skills Development (Labour) (2007 to 2008); National Revenue (2008 to 2009); Veterans Affairs (2009); Human Resources and Skills Development (Pensions) (2009 to 2013); Industry (Tourism) (2013 to 2014); Industry (2013 to 2015)
  • Member: Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2023); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2023, 2016 to 2019, 2005 to 2011); Canada-Japan Interparliamentary Group (2023, 2012 to 2019, 2006 to 2007); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group (2005 to Present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2018 to Present, 2012 to 2015); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2019 to 2022, 2011 to 2013, 2006 to 2009); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2005 to 2022); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2016, 2018 to 2019; Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2018 to 2020, 2013 to 2014); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2018 to 2019, 2012 to 2014, 2006 to 2009); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2018 to 2019, 2016, 2013 to 2014); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2018 to 2019, 2016, 2013 to 2014); Canadian Group of the Interparliamentary Union (2018 to 2019, 2011 to 2015, 2007 to 2008, 2004 to 2005); Canada-China Legislative Association (2009 to 2016); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2013 to 2016); Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2013 to 2014); Canada-Germany Parliamentary Association (2012 to 2014); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2012 to 2014)
  • Former Vice-Chair: Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2019 to 2020); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2016 to 2018, 2008 to 2011); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2016 to 2017)
  • Form Counsellor: Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2019 to 2020)
Notable committee membership
  • Chair: Standing Committee on International Trade (2019 to Present); Liaison Committee (2015 to Present)
  • Former Chair: Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2015 to 2019); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2015 to 2019); Standing Committee on the Status of Women (2006 to 2007)
  • Former Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2013 to 2015); (2019 to 2020); Standing Committee on the Status of Women (2011 to 2013); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2009 to 2011); Liaison Committee (2007 to 2008); Standing Committee on Health (2001 to 2002)
Recent points of interest
Taiwan:
Ms. Sgro, who is the Chair of the Canada-Taiwan Friendship Group, has shown an interest in the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Canada, the importance of the exploratory discussions on the Canada-Taiwan foreign investment promotion and protection arrangements, and the opportunities in green economy, agricultural markets, the semiconductor industry, education and science.
Canada-U.S. relationship:
Ms. Sgro has emphasized the importance of Canada and the United States' economic relationship and supports economic measures to strengthen this relationship.
Human rights: Iran, Russia

In a statement to the House in , Ms. Sgro indicated support for the people of Iran, who took to the streets to protest the government following the arrest and murder of a woman by the Iranian morality police.

In , Ms. Sgro spoke, in the House of Commons, on the topic of freedom of religion and brought attention to the human rights violations against the Ahmadiyya Muslim community around the globe.

Kyle Seeback (Vice-Chair)

Political affiliation: Conservative Party of Canada
Constituency: Dufferin-Caledon, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2011
  • Re-elected: 2019, 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor of laws degree
  • Law background: Associate Lawyer at Speigel Nichols Fox LLP (2000 to 2022); Associate Lawyer at Simmons Da Silva & Sinton LLP (2001 to 2012); Seeback Mediation (2019)
Key interests
  • Carbon tax
  • Environment (clean technology and net-zero emissions)
  • Immigration
Parliamentary roles
  • Critic: International Trade (2022 to Present); Environment and Climate Change (2021 to 2022)
  • Member: Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2013); Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-China Legislative Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-France Interparliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-Japan Inter-parliamentary Group (2011 to 2012); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-United States Interparliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canada-United Kingdom Interparliamentary Association (2011 to 2012); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2011 to 2012)
Notable committee membership
  • Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on International Trade (2022 to present)
  • Member: Special Committee on the Canada-People's Republic of China Relationship (2022 to present); Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2022); Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration (2020 to 2022); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure (2021 to 2022, 2013); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2020 to 2021); Special Committee on COVID-19 Pandemic (2020); Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development (2011 to 2015); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2011 to 2015)
Recent points of interest
Forced Labour in Xinjiang:
Since , Mr. Seeback has been critical of the government for its perceived failure to sufficiently enforce prohibitions on the importation of goods made using forced Uyghur labour.
Clean Technology:
At ENVI meetings, Mr. Seeback has shown an interest in the investor environment around clean tech. He also stated his interest in energy security, energy transitions and moving towards net zero emissions in Canada and worldwide.
C-242, Reuniting Families Act:
He sponsored this Bill to amend the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to allow a parent or grandparent who applies for a temporary resident visa as a visitor to purchase private health insurance outside Canada and stay in Canada for five years.

Simon-Pierre Savard-Tremblay (Vice-Chair)

Political affiliation: Bloc Québécois
Constituency: Saint-Hyacinthe-Bagot, Quebec

Election to the House of Commons
  • Elected: 2019
  • Re-elected: 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Political Sciences, a Master's degree in Sociology, and a PHD in Sociology and development
  • Columnist: Columnist at Radio VM (2015 to 2019); Columnist at Le Mag (2017 to 2019); Columnist at Cogéco 106,9 Fm Mauricie (2016 to 2019); Columnist at La Vie Agricole (2017 to 2019)
  • Blogger: Blogger at Le Journal de Montréal (2016 to 2019)
Key interests
  • Canada-U.S. relations
  • Aerospace
  • Small and medium-sized enterprises
  • Softwood lumber
Parliamentary roles
  • Critic: International trade, aerospace and cars (2019 to Present); Industry (2019 to Present)
  • Parliament Association Member: Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 to Present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2020 to Present); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2020 to Present); Canadian Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (2020 to Present); Canada-United Kingdom Inter-Parliamentary Association (2020 to Present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2020 to Present); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2019 to Present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2020 to Present); Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (2020 to Present); Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group (2020 to Present); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2020 to Present); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2020 to Present); Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2020 to Present)
Notable committee membership
  • Vice-Chair: Standing Committee on International Trade (2020 to Present)
  • Former Vice-Chair: Committee on Economic Relationship between Canada and the United States (2020 to 2021)
Recent points of interest
Aerospace:
Mr. Savard-Tremblay often cites Montreal as the third-largest aerospace hub in the world, and he regularly promotes the interests of this industry at CIIT meetings.
Canadian companies' conduct abroad:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Savard-Tremblay stated that Canada needs to tighten the rules through new agreements so that Canadian companies operating abroad better respect human rights.
Dispute Settlement:
Regarding free trade agreements, Mr. Savard-Tremblay is particularly interested in dispute settlement methods.
Environment:
Mr. Savard-Tremblay is also focussed on the environmental impacts of free trade agreements. At a CIIT meeting in , he expressed concern that a free trade agreement with the Philippines would increase the import of palm oil and thus increase the deforestation caused by this industry.
Supply Management:
Mr. Savard-Tremblay has reiterated several times in the House of Commons and at CIIT the importance of protecting the supply management system.
Sanction on Russia:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Savard-Tremblay asked witnesses how Canada can compensate companies impacted by the sanctions against Russia.

Chandra Arya

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Nepean, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Engineering and a Master's degree in Business Administration
  • Technology: Was an executive in the high-technology sector before entering in politics
  • Business: Served on the board of Invest Ottawa and as Chair of the Indo-Canada Ottawa Business Chamber
  • Non-Profit: Served on the board of the Unity Non-Profit Housing Corporation Ottawa and as Vice President of the Ottawa Community Immigrants Services Organization
Key interests
  • Critical minerals and battery production
  • Free trade agreements
  • Foreign direct investments
  • National security
Parliamentary roles

Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2016 to Present); Canada-China Legislative Association (2015 to Present); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2018 to Present); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2016 to Present); Canada-France Inter-Parliamentary Association (2019 to Present); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2018 to Present); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2018 to Present); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2018 to Present); Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group (2016 to Present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2016 to Present); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2016 to Present); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2016 to Present); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2017 to Present); Canada-United Kingdom Inter-Parliamentary Association (2016 to Present); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2016 to Present); Canadian Group of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (2016 to Present)

Notable committee membership

Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2020 to Present)

Recent points of interest
Export Market Diversification:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Arya stated that the Canadian Commercial Corporation must play an active role in promoting the exports of small and medium-sized enterprises to new markets, whether they are non-Western countries in Europe or countries in Africa and Asia.
Indo-Pacific Market:
At CIIT meetings, Mr. Arya is vocal about his views that India, Taiwan and ASEAN members are fundamental markets for diversifying Canada's export markets.
Foreign direct investment:
At recent CIIT meetings, Mr. Arya expressed interest in the evolution of Foreign Direct Investment in Canada since the pandemic.
Non-tariff barriers:
Mr. Arya often raises questions on non-tariff barriers in relation to their impact on free trade.
State-sponsored disinformation:
In a statement to the House in , Mr. Arya expressed concern about foreign threats to democracy, including state-sponsored disinformation, which he said has continued to grow amidst rising geopolitical tensions, a global pandemic and the rapid evolution of technology.
Critical Minerals:
On numerous occasions in the House and at CIIT, Mr. Arya has said that it is important for Canada to develop and implement strategies for critical minerals and clean industry solutions.

Tony Baldinelli

Political affiliation: Conservative Party of Canada
Constituency: Niagara Falls, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2019
  • Re-elected: 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government
  • Consultant: Senior Consultant at Hill & Knowlton (1997 to 2001)
  • Communication: Communications Manager at The Niagara Parks Commission (2001 to 2019)
Key interests
  • Economic recovery
  • Canada-U.S. borders
  • Travel and tourism
Parliamentary roles
  • Shadow Minister: Minister for Manufacturing and Export Promotion (2021 to Present)
  • Special Advisor to the Leader on Tourism Recovery (2021 to Present)
  • Member of the Executive: Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2020 to Present)
  • Member: Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2020 to Present); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2020 to Present); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2020 to Present); (2016 to 2017)
Notable committee membership
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2022 to Present)
  • Former Member: Standing Committee on Science and Research (2021 to 2022); Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2021); Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities (2020)
Recent points of interest
American Border:
In recent CIIT meetings, Mr. Baldinelli criticized the wait times at the Canada-U.S. border, which he said was causing huge losses for the Canadian tourism industry.
Indo-Pacific Market:
In recent CIIT meetings, Mr. Baldinelli asked several witnesses if there is a need to create an Indo-Pacific diversification office, or something similar, to handle issues like non-tariff barriers, particularly on the agricultural side.
Direct Foreign Investment:
Mr. Baldinelli seeks opportunities at CIIT meetings to ask questions regarding ways to increase foreign direct investment in Canada.
Agriculture Sector:
Typically, at CIIT meetings, Mr. Baldinelli focuses on the impact of Canada's international trade and trade agreements in the agriculture industry.
Human rights and Environment:
In , Mr. Baldinelli introduced in the House a motion calling upon the House of Commons to adopt human rights and environmental due diligence legislation when dealing with foreign countries.

Richard Cannings

Political affiliation: New Democratic Party of Canada
Constituency: South Okanagan-West Kootenay

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Master's degree in zoology
  • Biologist: 17 years as a professor at the University of British Columbia, consulting biologist including work for the non-profit Bird Studies Canada, 8 years as co-chair on the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada as, 11 years on B.C. Environmental Appeal Board and five on the B.C. Forest Appeals Commission, from 2006 to 2015 he was a board member of the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and authored or contribute to numerous books
Key interests
  • Climate change
  • Energy security
  • Carbon
Parliamentary roles
  • Critic: Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (International Trade) (2023 to Present); Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (Canada/US Border Relations) (2002 to Present); Industry (2021 to Present); Environment (Great Lakes) (2013 to Present); Industry (Auto Strategy) (2004 to 2011/2021 to Present)
  • Former Member: Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2020 to 2022); Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2015 to 2022); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2015 to 2022)
  • Former Counsellor: Canadian Section of ParlAmericas (2020)
Notable committee membership
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2023 to Present); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Science and Research (2021 to Present); Standing Committee on Science and Research (2021 to Present)
  • Former Member: Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2016 to 2021); Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2016 to 2020)
  • Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Natural Resources (2016 to 2019)
Recent points of interest
Critical Minerals and the Ecosystem:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Cannings showed interest in critical minerals and the need for a vertical ecosystem, from exploration to mining—graphite, lithium, cobalt, rare earth metals, etc.—to the production of battery parts, the production and recycling of batteries, and the manufacture of cars.
Canada-US Relations:
Mr. Cannings often shows interest at CIIT in Canada's trade position with the United States, asking witnesses to expand on how Canada can maintain its trade position with the United States in terms of the fight against climate change and how Canada can remain competitive in the realm of electric vehicles.
Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Cannings remarked that he had been hearing about this topic for the past seven years and was interested in this mechanism's possibilities, timelines and reliability.
Carbon Capture Market:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Cannings showed interested in the carbon capture market in Canada (outside the oil and gas industry) and was curious if it would enter into heavy industry and elsewhere.

Matt Jeneroux

Political affiliation: Conservative Party of Canada
Constituency: Oshawa, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background

Studies: Bachelor of Arts from the University of Alberta

Key interests
  • Shadow Minister for Supply Chains
  • Mental Health Awareness
  • Compassionate Care
Parliamentary roles
  • Shadow Minister: Supply Chains Issues (2022)
  • Former Shadow Minister: Housing and Diversity and Inclusion (2021 to 2022); Health (2008 to 2013); Infrastructure, Communities and Urban Affairs (2018 to 2020)
  • Member: Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association (2021 to Present); Canada-United Kingdom Inter-Parliamentary Association (2017 to Present, 2010 to 2014); Canada-China Legislative Association (2008 to 2018); Canada-Germany Interparliamentary Group (2011 to 2012, 2005 to 2006); Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association (2007 to Present); Canada-France Inter-Parliamentary Association (2010 to 2014); Canada-Ireland Interparliamentary Group (2021, 2010 to 2012, 2006 to 2007); Canada-Israel Interparliamentary Group (2021, 2016 to 2017, 2010 to 2012); Canada-Italy Interparliamentary Group (2006 to 2012); Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group (2018 to Present, 2010 to 2014, 2006 to 2007); Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association (2017 to Present, 2010 to 2014); Canadian Branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (2017 to Present, 2011 to 2014, 2008 to 2009); Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group (2004 to Present); Canada Section of ParlAmericas (2018 to Present, 2011 to 2012); Canadian Delegation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly (2019 to Present, 2015 to 2018, 2009 to 2012)
Notable committee membership
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2023 to present)
  • Former Vice Chair: Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2018)
  • Former member: Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development (2022, 2013 to 2015); Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2021 to 2022); Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics (2021); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2020 to 2021); Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic (2020); Standing Committee on Health (2016 to 2017, 2009 to 2013); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable development (2013 to 2014); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Health (2011 to 2013, 2004 to 2005); Subcommittee on Oil and Gas and Other Energy Prices (2008); Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2007 to 2008); and Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2006 to 2008)
Recent points of interest
Clean Technologies:
At recent CIIT and ENVI meetings, he has often raised the topic of electric, zero-emissions vehicles and charging stations (clean hydrogen).
Bill C-461
He introduced this Bill to advocate for new measures to stop human trafficking by proposing to amend Canada's Criminal Code to clarify what constitutes exploitation, to establish whether a person has committed the offence of trafficking in persons.

Mona Fortier

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Dorval-Lachine-Lasalle, Quebec

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, a Bachelor's degree in Law and a Master's degree in Law
  • Law: Before politics, she worked as a caregiver and ran her own law practice
  • Politics: She sat on the Executive Council of the LaSalle-Emard Federal Liberal Electoral District Association in various positions such as Youth Vice-President, Vice-President Female, Secretary, and Policy Officer
Key interests
  • Women & Gender violence
  • Immigration
Parliamentary roles

Parliamentary Secretary: Status of Women (2015 to 2017)

Notable committee membership

Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2021 to Present); Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2021 to Present)

Recent points of interest
Canadian mining firms abroad:
At a CIIT meeting in , Ms. Dhillon was interested in EDC's due-diligence practices in ensuring that its support of Canadian mining companies abroad simultaneously aligns with sustainable development principles and protects the environment and local communities abroad.
Aluminum:
At a CIIT meeting in regarding Canada's net-zero goals, Ms. Dhillon asked witnesses about specific industries that represent growth for the Canadian aluminum industry and any new or strengthened market opportunities for Canadian aluminum producers.
ASEAN Market:
At a CIIT meeting in , Ms. Dhillon asked several questions about the social and economic situation of several ASEAN countries, including human rights, to learn about their trade potential for Canada.
Global markets:
Ms. Dhillon supports increasing access to global markets for all Canadian companies and ensuring that Canadian companies can compete in global markets.
Russian sanctions:
At a CIIT meeting in , Ms. Dhillon addressed the impact of economic sanctions against Russia on the Canadian economy and businesses.
Softwood Lumber:
At a CIIT meeting in , Ms. Dhillon asked the witnesses how the government can best support the softwood lumber sector.
Women & Gender-based Violence:
Ms. Dhillon is a strong advocate for womens rights and a strong opponent of gender-based violence.

Richard Martel

Political affiliation: Conservative Party of Canada
Constituency: Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, Quebec

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2018
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background

Hockey: Served as head coach in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) (1993 to 2017)

Key interests
  • Softwood lumber
  • Canada-U.S. relations
  • Supply-chains
  • Free trade agreements
Parliamentary roles
  • Critic: Sport; Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec (2018 to 2020); National Defence (2018 to 2020)
  • Quebec Political Lieutenant (2020 to 2021)
Notable committee membership
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2021 to Present)
  • Former Member: Standing Committee on National Defence (2018 to 2020)
Recent points of interest
Food Exports:
In recent CIIT meetings, Mr. Martel has asked whether and how Canada can support its food exporters without harming the local Canadian market.
Manufacturing Sector:
In recent CIIT meetings, Mr. Martel wanted to know how Canada protects its manufacturing sector in Asia-Pacific markets such as Vietnam.
Taiwan:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Martel showed interest in Taiwan's admission to the CPTPP and asked the witnesses what role Canada could play in protecting Taiwan's western interests.
Foreign Direct Investment:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Martel stated that if Canada wants to attract more foreign investment, it must offer winning conditions to businesses, such as fewer regulations, a better tax environment, and reduced delays and costs for new projects.
Critical Metals:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Martel stated, "Canada absolutely has to secure Canadian supply of critical metals to limit China's and Russia's hold over this market."
Aluminum:
Mr. Martel comes from an aluminium producing region, so he is very interested in the opportunity and impact of Canada's trade agreements on the aluminum sector.
Sanctions against Russia:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Martel asked to what extent the sanctions and measures against Russia affect Canada's economy and what steps countries like Canada are taking to reduce the impact of those measures on trade and investment.
Softwood lumber:
Mr. Martel is an advocate for the softwood lumber industry. At CIIT he regularly criticizes what he perceives as the government's lack of protection of this industry in its free trade agreements such as CUSMA.
Dairy:
The dairy industry being very developed in his region, Mr. Martel regularly promotes the interests of this industry in committee.

Wilson Miao

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Richmon centre, British Columbia

Election to the House of Commons

First elected: 2021

Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and International Business
  • Business: Closing Sales Coordinator at Polygon Homes Ltd. (2014 to 2016); Director of Communications & Marketing at Richmond Sentinel (2018 to 2021); Investment Advisor Hoovest Financial Inc. (2021 to Present)
  • Health: Opulence Global Partner Lifestyle Advisor at Opulence Global (2011 to Present)
Key interests
  • Veterans
  • Free trade agreements
  • Right-to-repair framework
Parliamentary roles

Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of Employment, Workforce Development & Disability Inclusion (2019 to Present)

Notable committee membership

Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2021 to Present); Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs (2021 to Present)

Recent points of interest
Investments to achieve net-zero:
At CIIT meetings in November and , Mr. Miao stated that to reach the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, Canada's clean energy resources would require transformational investments to modernize its electricity grid. He showed particular interest in wireless technologies and low-carbon concrete exports.
Philippines:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Miao underscored that the Philippines is a significant trading partner and a key economic player in the Indo-Pacific region. He also argued that an MOU between Canada and the Philippines to establish a joint economic commission would benefit Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises.
Pork Exports:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Miao asked the witnesses how Canada can best diversify its pork exports, specifically within the ASEAN region, and what sort of impact would a diversified market have on the Canadian pork industry.
Small and Medium Businesses:
In general, during CIIT meetings, Mr. Miao advocates for the interests of small and medium-sized enterprises. He regularly asks questions about the impact of trade agreements on the activities of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises.
Agri-food Exporters:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Miao asked how a free trade agreement with ASEAN countries would impact Canadian agri-food exporters.
Softwood Lumber:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Miao asked about the domestic impacts of the United States' current application of tariffs on certain Canadian softwood lumber products and how those impacts vary across provinces and communities.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Mr. Miao strongly advocates for greater diversity and inclusion in federal institutions and Canadian society.

Terry Sheenan

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background
  • Private & Public Sectors: Prior to entering politics, Mr. Sheehan had a career in the private and public sectors in business, community, and economic development
  • Consultant: His last position prior to being elected as a Member of Parliament was as an employment and training consultant for the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities
Key interests
  • Canada-U.S. relations
  • Labour
  • Tourism
Parliamentary roles
  • Parliamentary Secretary: Labour (Employment and Social Development) (2021 to Present); Economic Development and Official Languages (FedNor) (2019 to 2021)
  • Co-Chair: Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group (2016 to Present)
  • Member: Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group (2016 to Present)
Notable committee membership
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2018 to Present); Standing Joint Committee on the Library of Parliament (2021 to Present)
  • Former Member: Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Technology (2016 to Present)
Recent points of interest
Russian sanctions:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Sheehan asked witnesses for general comments regarding Canadian mining firms abroad concerning Russia and the Russian sanctions.
Steel Industry:
Having several steel companies in his riding, Mr. Sheehan pays particular attention to this industry. At a CIIT meeting in , he asked several questions related to the contrasts between the implications of the previous Build Back Better Bill and the Inflation Reduction Act with regards to exports of steel goods to the United States. Also, at a CIIT meeting in , he asked several questions about environmental practices related to the use of coal in the steel industry in the United States and China.
Clean Tech:
At a CIIT meeting in . Mr. Sheehan recognized the issues related to climate change for the ASEAN countries and asked the witnesses about opportunities for the Canadian clean technology industry in these markets.
Environment & Gender Equality:
During a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Sheehan stated that through trade agreements, Canada could elevate the environmental and gender equality situation in particular areas, such as in the ASEAN region.
Softwood Lumber: US Duty Rate
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Sheehan stated that the United States duty rate on softwood lumber is "unjust and unfair," asking how this reality affects Canadian exporters and their workers and the relevant communities.
Electric Vehicles:
Mr. Sheehan sees the electric vehicle industry to reduce Canada's carbon emissions. At CIIT meetings, he promotes greater collaboration between Canada and its trading partners in this industry.
Indigenous Relations:
In the House and committee, Mr. Sheehan has repeatedly noted the importance of the government working with indigenous communities

Maninder Sidhu

Political affiliation: Liberal Party of Canada
Constituency: Parkdale-High Park, Ontario

Election to the House of Commons
  • First elected: 2015
  • Re-elected: 2019 and 2021
Professional background
  • Studies: Bachelor's degree in Political Science and History and Bachelor's degree in Law
  • Law: Associate at Fasken Martineau DuMoulin (2001 to 2003); Assistant Trial at Attorney United Nations (2009); Counsel, Constitutional Law at the Branch Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General (2003 to 2015)
  • Human Rights: Programme Officer Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (2008)
Key interests
  • Indigenous Rights
  • Health care
  • Housing
  • Electric vehicles
Parliamentary roles

Parliamentary Secretary: Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development (Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development/ Industry / Economic Development) (2021 to Present); Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada (2019 to 2021); Minister of Democratic Institutions (2019); Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada (2018 to 2019); Minister of Canadian Heritage (2017 to 2018); Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (2015 to 2017)

Notable committee membership
  • Vice-Chair: Special Joint Committee on the Declaration of Emergency (2022 to Present)
  • Member: Standing Committee on International Trade (2021 to Present); Special Joint Committee on the Declaration of Emergency (2022 to Present)
  • Former Member: Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights (2020 to 2021)
Recent points of interest
Responsible Business Conduct (RBC):
At CIIT meetings in , Mr. Virani asked questions regarding the RBC strategy. He sought assurances that mining companies abroad are operating under the RBC and that Canadians are held to a certain standard regarding the race for critical minerals.
Global Food Insecurity: Grain & Wheat
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Virani asked about the global food insecurity situation and stated that Canada must play its role in supplying grain and wheat to the world.
Progressive Trade: ASEAN
Mr. Virani places great emphasis on issues related to the environment, labour, trade and gender, and trade and indigenous rights. At a CIIT meeting in , he asked what challenges exist with respect to labour, the environment, trade and gender, and trade and indigenous issues among members of ASEAN.
Clean Tech:
At a CIIT meeting in , Mr. Virani noted the importance of the clean technology industry for Canada to promote environmental sustainability at home and abroad and asked which ASEAN countries are the most interesting for this industry.
Electric Vehicles:
Regularly at CIIT meetings, Mr. Virani talks and asks questions about the electric vehicle industry regarding tax credits, critical mineral exploitation in Canada to support this industry and commercial opportunities abroad.
Indigenous Rights: Reconciliation
Mr. Virani is an advocate for indigenous rights. He regularly asks about the government's efforts to advance reconciliation, including in trade.

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