HS Code:
This category includes informational materials originating from Canada, classified under various HS Codes depending on the specific product (e.g., HS 4901 for printed books, brochures, and similar printed matter; HS 3705 for photographic plates and films; HS 8523 for discs, tapes, and other recorded media). These products encompass a wide range of items such as publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact disks, CD ROMs, artworks, and news wire feeds. Canada is a significant exporter of cultural and informational content, driven by its robust media, publishing, and creative industries. The trade in these products reflects Canada’s emphasis on cultural exchange and intellectual property, with strong ties to markets in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately CAD 2.5 billion
Data from 2022
Source
Statistics Canada, International Trade Data
CAD 1.8 billion
72% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
CAD 200 million
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
CAD 150 million
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
CAD 100 million
4% of total trade of total trade
Stable
CAD 80 million
3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
2.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
6.5% (applied by certain developing countries for specific media products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and CETA)
Shift to Digital Formats
Increasing demand for digital content such as e-books, streaming media, and digital news feeds, reducing trade in physical media like CDs and printed materials.
2020-2022
Growth in Cultural Exports
Rising global interest in Canadian cultural products, particularly indigenous art and bilingual (English/French) publications, boosting export volumes.
2019-2022
Impact of Streaming Platforms
Partnerships between Canadian content creators and global streaming services have increased the export of films and digital media, though physical media trade has declined.
2021-2022
Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Canada secured exemptions for cultural industries, ensuring protection for informational and cultural materials from certain trade obligations.
October 2020
Strengthens Canada’s ability to promote and protect its cultural exports, especially in the U.S. market.
The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU has reduced tariffs and barriers for Canadian informational materials entering European markets.
September 2017 (full implementation ongoing)
Increased trade volume with EU countries, particularly for publications and artworks.
Several countries have introduced or updated digital services taxes and VAT on digital content, affecting the export of Canadian digital media and news wire feeds.
January 2022
Potential cost increases for Canadian exporters of digital content, necessitating strategic pricing adjustments.