WENDY MCCULLOCH
BRITISH COLUMBIA – Expanding into international markets presents exciting opportunities for British Columbia businesses, but it also brings complex challenges—none more pressing than tariffs. Understanding and navigating these trade barriers can be daunting, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) without dedicated trade expertise. This is where the Export Navigator program, delivered through Community Futures British Columbia, plays a crucial role.
The Challenge of Tariffs for B.C. Businesses
Tariffs are taxes or duties imposed on imported and exported goods, and they vary by country, industry, and product classification. For businesses looking to sell their products outside of Canada, tariffs impact international trade by affecting pricing, competitiveness, and overall profitability. Navigating these regulations requires knowledge of trade agreements, tariff schedules, and potential exemptions—areas that many businesses find overwhelming.
For British Columbia companies looking to export, particularly to the U.S., the Indo-Pacific region, or Europe, understanding tariff structures is critical. Even with Canada’s strong network of trade agreements—such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA) and the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union—tariffs and trade barriers still exist. Incorrectly classifying goods, failing to take advantage of preferential treatment, or misunderstanding regulatory requirements can result in unnecessary costs and delays.
How Export Navigator Helps Businesses Overcome Tariff Challenges
Export Navigator provides free one-to-one guidance to help businesses progress along the export pathway. With a team of dedicated Export Advisors, the program provides customized support to help companies expand into new markets, both domestic and international. A key aspect of this support is assisting businesses in understanding and managing tariffs effectively.
Here’s how Export Navigator helps businesses navigate tariffs and streamline their export strategies:
Leveraging Trade Agreements
Canada has preferential trade agreements with multiple markets, reducing or eliminating tariffs on various goods. However, taking full advantage of these agreements requires proper documentation and adherence to rules of origin. Export Advisors guide businesses through these processes, ensuring they maximize the benefits of trade agreements such as CPTPP, CKFTA, and CETA.
Market-Specific Trade Barriers
In addition to tariffs, exporters must navigate country-specific regulatory requirements, import restrictions, and certification standards. Export Navigator provides assistance with market research to help businesses proactively address these challenges and avoid costly delays.
Building a Resilient Export Strategy
Export success depends on more than just understanding tariffs—it requires a comprehensive strategy. The program connects businesses with industry resources, government trade services, and sector-specific expertise to ensure they are well-prepared for expansion.
Why B.C. Businesses Should Take Advantage of Export Navigator
For B.C. businesses looking to grow their markets, navigating tariffs and trade regulations can be a major hurdle. Export Navigator offers free one-to-one guidance to help businesses make informed decisions, reduce costs, and capitalize on opportunities.
With markets becoming more interconnected—and trade rules continuing to evolve—having the right guidance can make all the difference. Whether your business is new to exporting or looking to refine its growth strategy, Export Navigator provides the expertise needed to move forward with confidence.
Get Started Today
Thinking of exporting? Find an Export Advisor in your region today and discover what opportunities are available to you.
Wendy McCulloch Executive Director of Community Futures BC
