The role of Other Government Departments (OGDs) in the importing process

For many products imported into Canada, Other Government Departments (OGDs) determine if and how your goods can enter the country.

While the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) manages border regulations, customs clearance procedures, and the payment of duties and taxes, it is OGDs that oversee specific matters such as food safety, environmental protection, vehicle standards, and controlled goods.

If your product falls under an OGD’s mandate, the CBSA may not release your shipment until all requirements are met. 

In this article, we define OGDs, outline when their requirements apply, and discuss their role in the importing process.

What are Other Government Departments (OGDs)?

Other Government Departments (OGDs) are federal agencies that regulate specific categories of products entering Canada.

If your shipment falls under an OGD’s authority, that department determines its import eligibility and the permits, testing, certifications, or labelling requirements.

Products that are commonly regulated by OGDs include food, plants, animals, health and consumer goods, vehicles and vehicle parts, chemicals and hazardous materials, and controlled goods.

When do OGD requirements apply?

OGD requirements apply whenever the product you’re importing falls under a department’s regulatory mandate.

Even shipments with the correct HS code and complete customs paperwork may be held at the border if an OGD requirement is missing or incorrect.

To ensure compliance, make sure you fulfil OGD requirements at every stage of the importing process. Here’s what to look out for:

Before you import

Many products must meet Canadian standards before they even reach the border.

This can include securing permits, ensuring your suppliers meet Canadian specifications, arranging testing or certification, or preparing labels and packaging.

At import

During customs release, OGDs may review your documentation, require additional data, or request proof that the product meets the required standards.

If anything is missing or incomplete, the CBSA may not release your shipment.

After you import

Some products remain subject to inspection even after they enter Canada.

This can include verifications or record-keeping obligations.

Key OGDs involved when importing into Canada

There are many Other Government Departments in Canada. The most common are:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

The CFIA is responsible for regulating imports of food, animals, and plants, to protect the health and well-being of Canada’s people, environment and economy.

Health Canada

This department regulates products and substances that may affect human health, including food, drugs, medical devices, consumer products, cosmetics, and other health- and safety-related products.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)

The ECCC regulates pollution, hazardous substances, environmental emergencies, and wildlife, and enforces environmental laws and treaties.

Transport Canada

Transport Canada is the federal department responsible for transportation policies and programs, including establishing safety standards for vehicles, aviation and marine equipment, and regulating the transportation of dangerous goods.

Global Affairs Canada (GAC)

GAC oversees Canada’s international trade, including export and import controls, trade agreements, sanctions, quotas, and the regulation of goods subject to trade restrictions.

The role of OGD requirements in the importing process

Permits, licences, and certifications

Many products require approvals before they can be shipped to Canada. Missing or incomplete permits can result in border holds or denied entry.

Labelling, packaging, and safety standards

Health, consumer, environmental, and food products may need specific labels, warnings, or packaging formats. If your goods do not meet Canadian standards upon arrival, additional requirements may be needed before release.

Documentation and data requirements

Goods regulated by OGDs may require additional information beyond the usual data required for non-OGD-regulated goods. This helps the departments review the admissibility of your imports and verify their compliance.

Timelines and costs

Shipments that require extensive documentation or inspection often take longer to process. In this case, you may face storage fees, testing costs, or additional service charges if requirements are not met.

Penalties

When OGD requirements are not declared correctly or on time, your shipment may face fines under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS).

How Cole International can help

Because each OGD has its own definitions of what makes a product admissible into Canada, its own rules, and its own documentation standards, many importers find it challenging to navigate these requirements.

That’s where we come in.

At Cole International, we offer trade consulting and customs brokerage services to help Canadian businesses fulfil OGD requirements and keep their imports moving smoothly. 

Our team works with importers every day to:

• Review product details and determine if OGD rules apply
• Confirm permit, labelling, or certification requirements before shipping
• Prepare and submit the information OGDs need
• Identify potential compliance risks that could delay or prevent customs release

We don’t believe in guesswork. We get it right the first time. 

Reach out to one of our trade professionals if you’re unsure which OGD requirements apply to your shipment, or if you need help preparing the right paperwork.