Global Trade Alert

The Department of Finance is currently reviewing a request for the removal of the customs duties on imports of oils and preparations thereof, having a viscosity of 7.44 mm2/sec or more at 37.80C. These goods are classified under tariff item Nos. 2710.19.91 and 2710.20.10 of the Customs Tariff, dutiable at 5% under the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) Tariff, with a Free rate available under the General Preferential Tariff (GPT).Three specific oils at issue are Vacuum Gas Oil, Fuel Oil No. 5 and Fuel Oil No 6, which were previously duty-free, but became subject to the 5% MFN rate in 2011 pursuant to a confirmation that they were of a viscosity of 7.44mm2/sec. or more at 37.8oC. Vacuum gas oil is used as a feedstock for production of gasoline and diesel components, while the two fuel oils are used as fuel in various refinery operations.
 
According to the department, the applicants for duty elimination claim that these oils are not available from Canadian production in sufficient quantities and that tariff relief would enhance their competitiveness in both the domestic and export markets.