I am eventually hoping to import a large number of plants from overseas (not the US) into Canada. I've done the whole small order/phytosanitary certificate/taxes thing before, but this order will likely be different. I'm planning to bring in about $5k worth of plants, which would arrive in a shipping container. I don't own a nursery, and don't have any kind of business license.

Would anyone be able to point me in the right direction in terms of information on importation rules/CBSA rules/taxes? Has anyone undertaken a similar venture before?

Thanks,

Cameron.

I always go to the government source agency for this sort of thing. You actually contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. The link provided is their web page. Start with a simple phone call. If you already know your plant list, origin source (company etc) and as much information as possible - have it handy when you call. They should be able to assist you.

Please note the links in this quote are accessible on the government web page. Start at the link below, have a good read and call them directly. It's this agency that can seize and stop your shipment into Canada so call them. We pay them with our tax dollars to help us.

"Each product is governed by specific import requirements.

The CFIA's Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) is a searchable database on the Agency's website that you can use to view the import requirements that apply to the plant or plant product you want to import.

More information about regulations and policies regarding import requirements is posted on the CFIA website in the form of Plant Protection Policy Directives.

You can also get this information by contacting the CFIA offices by phone at 1-800-442-2342, by postal mail, or by email."

Good luck with this.
Peggy

Thanks for the info! I will let you know how everything progresses. I have a feeling this is going to be a long process!

Cameron.

I'd love to know how this goes. And I'm curious as to what type of plants you are looking to bring in. But that's just me being nosey. Anything to do with plants I'm there!

Best of luck,
Peggy

I'll be bringing in some hardy subtropicals. I'll share some pics when (if) I eventually order the plants!

Cameron.

Have you tried looking for a Canadian source for those plants?

That's a large sum of cash to spend on plants; especially with sending it overseas. I don't imagine that you are just buying them for your own use. With that size of order, you should be able to source a wholesale order.

By looking locally, they have done all the hoop jumping and paid all the import fees, taxes and permits

Just my opinion

Green Thumb Guy, as it is now, I'm practically the only Canadian source for this cultivar of plant!! I would be ordering them wholesale, and I know that compared to Canadian/US prices, I would be getting a good deal.

What's so special about these plants? I haven't looked them up yet.

diggy 500 What process did you go through to enable a good outcome with your resent purchase.

Thank you for any guidance you can give me.