Summary
Those who import certain aluminum products into Canada are being reminded that the deadline for the mandatory smelt and cast reporting requirements under General Import Permit (GIP) No. 83 is approaching.
Global Affairs Canada (GAC) updated Notice to Importers No. 1170 on September 14th, 2026, to include the smelt and cast reporting requirements.
These changes will become mandatory on October 1, 2026.
What is changing?
Starting on October 1, 2026, importers will be required to declare the following information at the time of importation:
- Country of Largest Smelt (CLS): Required where goods contain primary aluminum
- Country of Second-Largest Smelt (C2S): Required where applicable (i.e., where a second country contributed to the smelt of primary aluminum)
- Country of Most Recent Cast (CRC): Required for all goods covered by GIP 83, regardless of whether they contain primary aluminum
These data elements are part of Canada’s aluminum import monitoring program, which tracks the origin of aluminum entering the country to support trade remedy measures and supply chain transparency.
Exemptions
The new CLS, C2S, and CRC reporting requirements do not apply in the following circumstances:
- Customs Self-Assessment (CSA) importers
- The total value for duty of the imported goods is $5,000 CAD or less.
Record Keeping
Importers are required to retain documents and records containing this information for a period of six years after the year of importation.
Compliance
Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of GIP No. 83 may result in penalties levied by the CBSA under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System.
It is highly recommended that importers review their tariff classifications, contact suppliers to obtain the necessary smelt and cast information, and update their internal systems and documentation in preparation for the October 1, 2026, deadline.
Learn more:
- Customs Notice 26-15: Amendments to the General Import Permit No. 83 — Aluminum products
- Notice to importers – General import permit No. 83 – Aluminum products – Serial No. 1170
Please contact your Livingston account representative for more details.