Working with China in Toronto

Working with China from Toronto: where to start

Goods from China arrive at Canada’s Pacific ports (Vancouver, Prince Rupert) and travel by rail to Toronto — the country’s largest market. You will need a supplier, quality control, and customs clearance.

What matters specifically for Russian speakers from the CIS

• Paying the supplier. Paying China from a Canadian company account is straightforward, but opening that account is difficult for a Russian national; common solutions include USDT, a payment agent in China or Hong Kong, and international wire transfers;
• Canadian banks scrutinize funds originating from Russia;
• factor commission and exchange rate costs (1–3%) into your cost price.

Supplier search and vetting

• platforms: Alibaba, 1688 (cheaper), Global Sources, Canton Fair;
• verify the business licence, request samples, and arrange a video audit;
• payment 30/70; Trade Assurance and pre-shipment inspection.

Logistics and customs clearance

• sea via Vancouver / Prince Rupert, then rail (CN/CP intermodal) to Toronto;
• also via Montreal (Atlantic) for the eastern part;
• a Business Number (BN) is required along with CBSA customs clearance; on import — GST/HST plus duty;
• air freight via Pearson — for urgent shipments.

Common mistakes and how to choose the right partner

• ordering without a sample and QC leads to defects;
• a suspiciously cheap ’supplier’ is a middleman;
• calculate the full landed cost including logistics and duties;
• it is safer to work through a turnkey partner in China.

Need suppliers and logistics from China to Toronto? Describe your task — we’ll help you find and verify.