Canadian Legislative Updates

Used Vehicle Importation Legislation Receives Royal Assent

The Government of Canada has announced that used vehicles from Mexico that can be modified to meet Canadian safety and environmental standards will be permitted to be imported into Canada in the short term.

The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities made the announcement on March 23 that amendments to the Motor Vehicle Safety Act (MVSA) and the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) have received Royal Assent.

Minister Strahl highlighted that the Government remains committed to upholding its road safety record, all the while providing Canadian consumers with more choice. These amendments will establish a balance between maintaining safety for Canadians, protecting the environment, and meeting the needs of Canadian consumers and commercial importers.

Through these amendments, the Government of Canada will comply with the North American Free Trade Agreement and will continue its joint relationship with Mexico.

In order to facilitate the importation of used vehicles from Mexico, amendments to the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations will need to be put in place. The Government projects that it will take between one and two years to complete these amendments.

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