New NAFTA / CUSMA / USMCA Coming-into-Force: What Businesses Need to Know

| General NMMA News

With the new Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) coming into force on July 1st, NMMA is reminding members to review the changes that pertain to the recreational boating industry. Members are also encouraged to read NMMA’s fact sheet for a refresh of the main components of the agreement. Please note that NAFTA rules will continue to apply until July 1st, and will continue to apply for goods that entered into commerce on or before June 30th.

Under CUSMA, there are no changes to the rules of origin for recreational marine engines and boats. However, importers will have to provide information in a new format to prove origin of goods and claim preferential tariff treatment.

This new ‘certification of origin’ does not follow a prescribed format (in contrast to the old NAFTA certificates), but must include elements such as:

  • identification and address of the certifier
  • exporter
  • producer
  • importer
  • description of the good
  • the rule of origin
The certification can be completed by the importer, exporter, or producer of the goods. It can be included on an invoice or any other document, and can be submitted electronically with an electronic or digital signature. Click here to learn more about how to complete a certification of origin.
Below are some resources that will help ensure your business is ready to comply with the new trade deal:
Overview of key changes affecting imports (Canada Border Services Agency). Exporting manufacturers and importers should pay attention to the proof of origin rules to claim preferential tariff treatment, including the format of new certifications of origin.
Prepare for USMCA (US International Trade Administration). This plain language guide covers “important information to be aware of on day one of USMCA…including tariffs, certification of origin, de minimis, and rules of origin.”
Updated Interim Implementation Instructions (US Customs and Border Protection). A detailed document that gives technical guidance on implementing the various chapters of the new trade agreement. The latest June 16th guidance can be accessed in PDF format here.
NMMA understands the challenge our members are facing in complying with a new trade agreement during a global pandemic. Keep an eye out for additional compliance resources and other useful guidance in the coming days and weeks.