RVDA of Canada continues to monitor and assess the impact of Canada’s evolving tariff measures on products imported into Canada.
Following the latest changes effective Sept. 8, there are three important developments for RV dealers to be aware of, the association said:
- RVs entering Canada remain exempt
- Some RV-related products are now subject to tariffs
- New support available through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative
RVs entering Canada remain exempt
RVs themselves continue to be exempt from the new September 8 counter-tariffs.
The new measures apply to specific goods identified by their HS tariff classification and U.S. origin, not simply because a product is sold for use in an RV. Canada’s official list identifies the specific tariff items subject to the new measures.
Some RV-related products are now subject to tariffs
While RVs remain exempt, certain products commonly used in RVs may now be subject to additional surtax when they meet the applicable HS classification and U.S.-origin requirements.
The federal government’s list specifically includes products such as:
- Pump parts
- Air compressors and fans
- Air-conditioning equipment and related parts
- Electrical cable and conductors
- Refrigeration equipment, including certain equipment designed for recreational vehicles
The applicable tariff rate varies by tariff item. The key point is that the tariff treatment is determined by the product’s HS classification and country of origin, not by whether the product is intended for an RV.
Click here for RV-related items subject to tariffs.
A particular concern for warranty and repair work
This is especially important for dealers ordering replacement parts, RVDA of Canada said.
For example, if a dealer orders a replacement RV air conditioner or related equipment (see list below), and that product is classified under one of the tariff items included on the Sept. 8 list and is of U.S. origin, the importer may be liable for the applicable additional surtax.
- water pump or pump component
- furnace/ventilation component
- air-conditioning component
- electrical cable or wiring assembly
- electrical component
- seating component
- flooring or interior component
- various metal/plastic components
In other words, the fact that a part is being imported for a warranty repair does not, by itself, make it exempt from the tariff.
RV air conditioners and related equipment.
The Sept. 8 list includes:
- 8415.10.00 – 15%
- 8415.81.10 – 15%
- 8415.82.10 – 15%
- 8415.83.00 – 25%
Dealers should work with their customs broker to confirm the HS classification and country of origin of products that may be affected before importing them.
New support available through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative
Additional support for businesses dealing with the impact of tariffs and trade disruption are being being made available by the federal government.
The Government of Canada has announced that it is strengthening the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) with $3.45 billion over four years to support small and medium-sized businesses affected by tariffs. The enhanced initiative includes liquidity support to help businesses manage tariff-related pressures, as well as funding to improve productivity, diversify markets, strengthen supply chains and build greater trade resilience.
The RTRI is delivered through Canada’s regional development agencies and is intended to help Canadian businesses adapt to changing trade conditions and manage the impacts of tariffs. Details on funding and eligibility are being released regionally.
Given the challenges some RV dealers and businesses may be experiencing as a result of the current trade environment, this is a program worth keeping on your radar. RVDA of Canada said it will continue to monitor the rollout and share relevant information as it becomes available.
What should dealers do now?
- Review the products and replacement parts you regularly import from the U.S.
- Confirm the HS classification and country of origin of potentially affected products with your customs broker.
- Pay particular attention to products used in warranty and repair work, including air-conditioning and related equipment.
- Monitor the Regional Tariff Response Initiative and other government support programs for potential assistance.
RVDA of Canada said it will continue to monitor these developments, assess their impact on the RV industry and advocate on behalf of its members for a fair business environment, helping ensure the road ahead remains clear for the RV industry.
If you have any questions or would like to raise an advocacy priority, please reach out to the RVDA of Canada’s team.
