How to deliver food to Canada in 2025: a practical guide

Exporting food to Canada is not only possible — it’s also profitable. Canada is one of the most attractive markets for food producers. Eastern European cuisine is highly appreciated here: Ukrainian, Polish, and Slovak products are actively sought after and purchased both by the diaspora and by Canadians themselves. However, it’s important to follow the rules. Here’s what you need to do.

1. Obtain an SFCR License — it’s essential

• SFCR (Safe Food for Canadians Regulations) — required for importing most categories of food products.
• Apply through the My CFIA portal.
• Necessary for meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, juices, grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, baby food, etc.

2. Check whether your product is allowed for import

• Canada has strict restrictions on certain goods (e.g., raw meat).
• Check the requirements through the AIRS system.

3. Follow labeling requirements

• Labels must be in both English and French.
• Mandatory information includes: ingredients, allergens, expiration date, weight in metric units.
• Also required — importer or distributor information, and for many products — a Nutrition Facts table.

4. Prepare veterinary or sanitary certificates

• Mandatory for animal-origin products (meat, fish, dairy products, eggs).
• Certificates must be issued in Ukraine, Poland, or Slovakia and recognized by CFIA.

5. Notify CFIA about the shipment in advance

• Many categories require Pre-Arrival Notification.
• Failure to notify may result in delays or refusal of entry.

6. Work through an importer or register a company in Canada

• CFIA works only with Canadian residents.

You can:

• find a partner in Canada with an SFCR license
• or register your own legal entity and apply for a license yourself

7. Prepare documents for customs clearance (CBSA)

• Required: invoice, packing list, SFCR license, and certificates.
• Declarations are usually submitted by a broker, but the sender is responsible for the documents.

Additionally: packaging and inspections

• Packaging must comply with CFIA requirements — especially for frozen and chilled goods.
• During the first import, CFIA may take samples for testing.
• If the product is subject to Preventive Controls, you must provide proof of compliance.

GlobalPost delivers food to Canada from Ukraine, Poland, and Slovakia

• We regularly organize delivery of Ukrainian, Polish, and Slovak food products to Canada.
• We assist with documents, inspections, and certificate preparation.
• We deliver samples, small batches, and full containers — from 1 kg to a full truckload.
• We handle frozen products — using thermal boxes, dry ice, and cold packs.
• Delivery time — from 72–96 hours.
• Check the price and get a consultation

Ready to supply to Canada?
Contact us — we’ll advise you on how to get started and how to properly enter the Canadian market with your products.