Tariff and Customs Advisory Program
The Tariff and Customs Advisory Program (TCAP) offers Atlantic Canadian companies expert guidance to manage tariffs, optimize supply chains and stay compliant with trade regulations.
What's included:
- Up to 12 hours of Consulting (maximum contribution of $1,750 +HST) to assist with addressing challenges related to tariffs
- Expert consultants: Customs Brokers, Trade Consultants and Trade Lawyers (companies to self identify who they wish to work with)
- Cost: Participation fee of $99
The program is open to registered companies headquartered in Atlantic Canada with exportable products or services impacted by tariffs and retaliatory tariffs. Companies must be in good standing with TCAP's federal and provincial partners.
Deadline to apply is January 31st, 2026.
Click here for our Frequently Asked Questions
Participating companies are responsible for selecting the consultant they wish to work with, provided the consultant is a customs broker, international trade consultant, or trade lawyer. NSACBDC can assist with suggestions if companies need help identifying a suitable consultant. Click here for the directory.
What Can You Use This Program For?
1. Understanding & Managing U.S. Tariffs
- Determine if your products are subject to U.S. tariffs and its financial impact.
- Identify strategies to minimize tariff costs, such as reclassifying goods or changing sourcing strategies.
- Explore opportunities to apply for tariff exemptions or reductions under U.S. trade laws.
2. Supply Chain Optimization
- Evaluate alternative sourcing strategies to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers.
- Assess whether nearshoring or supplier diversification could lower costs and risk.
- Identify logistics efficiencies to avoid delays and reduce customs fees.
3. Trade Agreements & Compliance
- Determine if you qualify for preferential trade treatment under agreements like USMCA.
- Ensure proper tariff classification of your products to avoid overpaying duties.
- Understand documentation requirements for certificates of origin, duty refunds, or re-export processes.
4. Customs & Regulatory Compliance
- Avoid customs penalties by ensuring accurate import/export declarations.
- Ensure proper labeling and product descriptions to meet U.S. import regulations.
- Get guidance on Harmonized System (HS) codes for correct product classification.
5. Legal Support for Complex Trade Issues
- Understand the impact of anti-dumping or countervailing duties on your products.
- Resolve disputes with U.S. customs authorities over product classification or valuation.
- Assess the risk of retaliatory tariffs or future policy changes affecting exports.
7. Cost-Saving Opportunities
- Identify duty drawback programs to recover duties paid on re-exported goods.
- Use bonded warehousing or free trade zones to defer tariff payments.
- Structure contracts and invoices to minimize tax liabilities.
Who Can Benefit?
✔️ Manufacturers exporting goods to the U.S.
✔️ Food & Beverage Companies affected by agricultural tariffs.
✔️ Retailers & Distributors exporting consumer goods.
✔️ Tech & Industrial Companies navigating complex trade policies.
Still have questions? Please refer to our Frequently Asked Questions document or contact Erinn Smith at erinn.smith@cbdc.ca
The Tariff and Customs Advisory Program (TCAP) is delivered by the Nova Scotia Association of CBDCs and is an initiative of the Atlantic Trade and Investment Growth Strategy (ATIGS), funded in part by the government of Canada and the four Atlantic Canadian provinces.
