The Notification of Fish Imports to the CFIA Remains Mandatory Regardless of the Implementation of Mandatory EDI

PDF (205 kb)

9 October 2007

TO: ALL IMPORTERS OF FISH AND SEAFOOD PRODUCTS

SUBJECT: THE NOTIFICATION OF FISH IMPORTS TO THE CFIA REMAINS MANDATORY REGARDLESS OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF MANDATORY EDI

As of October 15, 2007, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) will require that the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) be used for the Release of Imports on Minimum Documentation (RMD) or the Pre-arrival Review System (PARS). EDI will replace the paper versions which will no longer be accepted by the CBSA. The transmittal of product information through EDI does not replace the requirement for importers to submit an import notification to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Importers must continue to submit, to the appropriate CFIA office, an import notification for all shipments of fish products imported into Canada within 48 hours of arrival as per the Fish Inspection Regulations. The import notification form can be obtained at the following internet address:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/fispoi/import/importe.shtml. Please note that only one import notification can be submitted for a shipment and that all products are withheld from distribution until notified of their release by the CFIA.

The transmittal of import information via EDI, requires an active EDI profile with both the CBSA and the CFIA. For information regarding the activation of an EDI profile with the CFIA please refer to the Communiqué to Customs Brokers, Importers and Associations (September 10, 2007) CBSA's Measures to Increase the use of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), For Release Purposes ( PDF (85 kb)) in attachment. The information to be submitted through EDI will include the HS code for each lot of product and the details pertaining to the import requirements as described in the Automated Import Reference System (AIRS) for that product.

For further information or clarifications regarding EDI, PARS or RMD, please contact CBSA or refer to their industry notice of April 26, 2007 available at:
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/import/notice-avis-imp-eng.html.

Sincerely,

original signed by

Mary Ann Green
Director
Fish, Seafood and Production Division
Animal Products Directorate
Canadian Food Inspection Agency