As of November 3, 2025, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) began issuing electronic phytosanitary export certificates for grains and grain products destined for Mexico. These certificates serve as official documents certifying that the products have been inspected according to required procedures, are free from regulated pests, and meet the current phytosanitary requirements of the importing country. The transition to electronic certification streamlines trade by reducing fraud risk and eliminating delays associated with mailing paper documents.
The move strengthens Canada-Mexico trade relations and lays the groundwork for expanding electronic certification to other agriculture and agri-food products. This initiative follows a recent visit to Mexico by Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Honourable Heath MacDonald, which reinforced the country’s commitment to the Canada-Mexico Action Plan 2025–2028 and promoting Canadian agriculture internationally.
The electronic certificates are accessible via the My CFIA online portal, reflecting CFIA’s broader efforts to modernize processes, reduce red tape, and provide convenient digital services to stakeholders. Minister MacDonald emphasized that the measure supports Canadian businesses, promotes economic growth, fosters innovation, and advances sustainability while facilitating easier access to international markets.
Mexico is a strategic and growing trade partner for Canada, with bilateral agri-food trade reaching C$6.9 billion in 2024, a 44.8% increase since 2019. Canada’s exports to Mexico include pork, canola, wheat, and beef, while imports consist primarily of fresh produce and tequila. The two countries recently launched a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to deepen trade and investment, covering areas such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, environmental conservation, and security.
The Canada-Mexico relationship is supported by major trade agreements like CUSMA and the CPTPP, facilitating integrated supply chains. In 2024, Mexico was the 12th largest global importer of agri-food products, with about 40% of its food consumption coming from imports. Canada ranked among the top suppliers, underscoring the importance of streamlined export processes such as the new electronic phytosanitary certificates in strengthening bilateral trade.
