Posts from Timothy Byrnes

Montreal is a leading North American city with a large demand for USA goods. Although located within only an hour of the USA border, shipping from the USA to Montreal can be expensive and difficult due to cross border issues.


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Quick answer: For small parcels to Sweden, Canada Post with PostNord final delivery is usually cheapest; couriers deliver in 2 to 5 days for e-commerce and mid-sized parcels; ocean freight wins for pallets. Under CETA most Canadian-origin goods enter duty-free, but 25 percent Swedish VAT still applies, and 2026 EU parcel rules add a flat 3 euro interim duty per tariff line.

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Jet Worldwide has helped Canadian companies ship globally since 1988. Whether you are sending e-commerce parcels, commercial freight, or urgent courier shipments to Sweden, this guide gives you the insight to succeed in European markets and avoid unexpected border fees.

Canada to Sweden Shipping Costs and Transit Times

The cost to ship from Canada to Sweden depends on size, weight, and service level. Local post is best for personal packages; couriers are best for commercial shipments and heavier parcels. Contact our team for our lowest spot quote on shipments over 10 kilograms.

A Quick Comparison of Your Best Options

Mode Transit time Best for Sample cost
Courier (FedEx, UPS, DHL) 2 to 5 days Parcels and e-commerce from about CAD 170 for 5 kg
Canada Post 7 to 14 days Small personal packages from about CAD 40 for 2 kg surface
Air freight 5 to 10 days Commercial cargo 100 kg and up about CAD 5 to 7 per kg
Ocean freight 30 to 60 days Pallets and containers from about CAD 1,500 per 20 ft container

Correction noted: the courier sample was reconciled to the rate table used by the calculator below. An earlier version showed "about CAD 150 for up to 4.5 kg," which did not match the standard table starting at CAD 170 for 5 kg.

Canada to Sweden Sample Price Calculator

Enter your package dimensions and actual weight to calculate the chargeable weight. If the billed weight falls between 5.0 and 15.0 kg, you will see a sample price from our standard rate table. For shipments over 15 kilograms, contact our team for a discounted spot quote.

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2026 Update: EU Customs for Parcel Imports

The European Union changed how customs authorities process low-value e-commerce and personal shipments in 2026. These changes directly affect Swedish consumers importing goods valued at 150 euro or less.

The flat 3 euro interim duty

From 1 July 2026 the EU removed the 150 euro duty-free de minimis, and a flat 3 euro customs duty applies per customs-declaration line, meaning per distinct tariff category (based on tariff sub-headings) in the parcel. It is an interim measure until 1 July 2028, when the EU Customs Data Hub launches and normal tariff rates apply.

Example calculation

  • The order: 1 silk blouse, 2 wool blouses, and 3 wool scarves.
  • The assessment: silk and wool blouses sit under different tariff sub-headings, and scarves have their own classification, so the declaration has three distinct lines.
  • The duty: 3 lines times 3 euro equals 9 euro interim customs duty, plus VAT and any handling fee.

The new handling fee

A separate EU-wide handling fee of about 2 euro is expected around November 2026, though the amount and date are still being finalized. In addition, item-level Product Identifier Data becomes mandatory on 1 November 2026, and generic descriptions are no longer acceptable.

Corrections noted: the earlier version described a "3 euro duty multiplier" without a date and a firm "2 euro handling fee from November 2026." The precise position: the 3 euro is a flat interim duty per declaration line from 1 July 2026, interim until 1 July 2028; the 2 euro handling fee is proposed for around November 2026 but not yet finalized. See our EU Product Identifier (PID) guide.

CETA Duty-Free Considerations

The Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) eliminates duties on most originating goods, but shippers must ensure their products strictly meet the CETA rules of origin, with a valid origin declaration, to claim preference. Swedish VAT of 25 percent still applies regardless of CETA status, calculated on the CIF value plus any duty. For consignments over 6,000 euro the exporter needs a REX number; below that, the invoice origin statement suffices. Benefit from Canada's free trade agreements.

Frequently Asked Questions: Shipping From Canada to Sweden

What is the cheapest way to ship from Canada to Sweden?

For small parcels, Canada Post, with PostNord handling final delivery, is often the cheapest route. Couriers offer the best value for mid-sized parcels up to about 100 kg. For heavier commercial shipments, economy air freight, or ocean freight for pallets, is the most cost-effective.

How long does shipping to Sweden take?

Postal options usually deliver within about 2 weeks. Courier express takes about 2 to 5 business days. Air freight usually delivers within about a week. Ocean freight takes about 30 to 60 days depending on routing.

What is chargeable weight?

Chargeable weight is the greater of the actual scale weight or the dimensional weight. Dimensional weight is length times width times height in centimeters divided by 5000. Couriers typically round up to the next half kilogram.

What are the 2026 EU parcel-duty changes for Sweden?

From 1 July 2026 the EU removed the 150 euro duty-free de minimis, and a flat 3 euro interim customs duty applies per customs-declaration line, meaning per distinct tariff category, on consignments valued up to 150 euro, until the EU Customs Data Hub launches on 1 July 2028. A separate EU handling fee of about 2 euro is expected around November 2026, with the amount and date still to be confirmed.

Does CETA make my shipment to Sweden duty-free?

CETA eliminates duties on most originating Canadian goods, but the goods must meet the CETA rules of origin and carry a valid origin declaration. Swedish VAT of 25 percent still applies regardless of CETA status, calculated on the CIF value plus any duty.

Can I ship dry ice to Sweden from Canada?

Yes. Dry ice is a reliable solution for transporting temperature-sensitive goods to Sweden, such as biomedical samples, life-science materials, and frozen food. Per-package quantity limits apply and vary by carrier and aircraft. Contact our team for specialized cold-chain support.

Information gain, from Jet Worldwide lane data: across the Canada-to-Sweden parcels Jet handled in the last 12 months, about [JET-PROPRIETARY-PERCENT]% were billed on dimensional rather than actual weight, and the most common avoidable delay was an incomplete origin declaration on a CETA claim rather than the new parcel duty. (Placeholder: insert a real Jet Worldwide operational figure before publishing.)

 

Ready to Ship Between Canada and Sweden?

Whether you are a Canadian e-commerce business, a Swedish importer, or a logistics professional, Jet Worldwide can help you build the right shipping solution, with support on rates, customs compliance, and VAT.

About the author

Timothy Byrnes has led Jet Worldwide, a Montreal-based international logistics firm, since 1988, specializing in cross-border shipping and trade compliance.

Disclaimer: Jet Worldwide content is for general information only. Confirm current EU and Swedish customs rules with your customs broker before shipping.


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Luxembourg has a strong economic connections with Canada. Canada's trade with Luxembourg totals over $280 million per year and includes packaging machinery, mining and metals, and telecom technologies.


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Quick answer: For small parcels to Austria, Canada Post surface is cheapest, delivered by Austrian Post; couriers and air suit commercial freight. Canadian-origin goods enter duty-free under CETA with an invoice origin declaration, but Austrian VAT of 20 percent still applies, and since 1 July 2026 the EU applies a flat 3 euro interim duty per tariff line on low-value parcels.

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Trade between Austria and Canada is supported by the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU, whose lower tariffs and trade-friendly rules expand the opportunity for Canadian companies. Austria is a wealthy, stable economy in the centre of Europe, with strengths in chemicals, automotive, mechanical engineering, electronics, and life sciences. This guide covers shipping between Canada and Austria in both directions.

The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) if often referred to as the "Canadian European Free Trade Agreement."

A trusted logistics brand since 1988. Contact our team for an initial consultation.

 

 

Download the accompanying PDF

Best Options and Costs, Canada to Austria

There are four main ways to move goods between Canada and Austria. Cost depends on package size, weight, pickup and delivery address, carrier, and service.

Mode Best for
Air freight Fastest; urgent and higher-value cargo
Ocean freight Large commercial orders and bulk
Local post (Canada Post) Individuals sending small packages and personal items
Couriers (FedEx, DHL, UPS) Tracked commercial parcels and time-definite delivery

For individuals shipping small packages, Canada Post surface is usually the cheapest option. For heavier shipments, commercial carriers and their partners are often the better choice. Get an international shipping rate.

Jet Worldwide can also ship frozen or refrigerated goods to Austria using dry ice; per-package quantity limits apply and vary by carrier and aircraft.

Shipping Cargo From Canada to Austria

Companies choose between air cargo and sea freight. Air cargo usually delivers within about a week. Ocean cargo averages 1 to 3 months door to door, typically arriving at a European port (often in the Netherlands) and then moving overland to Austria by truck or rail.

  • LCL (Less than Container Load): shares container space with other consignments; allow extra transit time for consolidation and de-consolidation.
  • FCL (Full Container Load): a full 20 ft or 40 ft container.

Air versus ocean: which is cheaper?

Ocean freight carries many surcharges that add cost to smaller shipments, so consignments up to around 100 kg are often cheaper by air. See ocean shipping from Canada.

Correction noted: an earlier heading read "ocean cargo versus sea freight," which are the same thing. The meaningful comparison is air versus ocean.

Canadian Parcel Options to Austria

Canada Post

Canada Post is the preferred option for individuals shipping small parcels and personal items. Items shipped via Canada Post are imported and deliver in Austria by the Austrian Post.  Services include Small Packet International (surface, air, and tracked packet), International Parcel, and Xpresspost International.

FedEx and UPS Canada

FedEx and UPS are the largest carriers in North America and, with DHL, offer dependable express service to Austria. Contact our team for our lowest spot quote to Austria.

Purolator

Purolator Courier, a division of Canada Post, offers international parcel delivery to Austria through partners including those mentioned above.

Jet Worldwide

Jet Worldwide provides options for shipping between Austria and Canada plus logistics support, with transparency and independent, carrier-neutral advice. Share the type of goods, shipping volume, and any regulatory considerations for a tailored quote.

Canadian Export Declaration for Shipments to Austria

Shipments from Canada to Austria valued at CAD 2,000 or more, or otherwise regulated, require a Canadian export declaration filed in CERS. Read more about the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS).

Shipping Terms to Consider

The common default for international parcels from Canada is DAP, formerly called DDU, which assigns import duty, taxes, and other fees to the receiver or importer. Shippers can instead choose DDP to prepay those charges, an option most commercial carriers offer. Verify shipping terms.

The drawback of prepaying is that most of the import charge is often VAT, which an importing business may otherwise reclaim. 

By default, import duty and taxes are the responsibility of the consignee or importer. 

Austrian Customs, CETA, and VAT

Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) tariff rates generally apply between Austria and Canada. Goods that meet the CETA rules of origin qualify for duty-free import at any value. Goods must be accompanied by a commercial invoice. Other supporting documents for specific commodities may be required.  Austrian customs assess duty and tax on the CIF value. Classification uses the EU Combined Nomenclature (CN); the classification is common across the EU, but duty rates can differ.

Austrian VAT (Umsatzsteuer, also Mehrwertsteuer) is 20 percent, with reduced rates of 13 percent and 10 percent on certain goods. VAT is charged on the CIF value plus duty.

Austrian businesses may be able to claim back VAT paid on imported goods.

The 2026 EU low-value parcel rules

A flat 3 euro interim customs duty applies per customs-declaration line (per distinct tariff category) on consignments valued up to 150 euro. A separate EU handling fee of about 2 euro is expected around November 2026.

Duty-Free Is Not VAT-Free

This is the single most misunderstood point for Austria-bound shippers. Even when CETA makes a shipment 0 percent duty, Austrian VAT still applies on the CIF value plus any duty. Duty relief and VAT are two separate charges.

Worked example: a CETA-originating shipment, CIF value EUR 500

CIF value EUR 500.00
CETA duty (0 percent) EUR 0.00
Austrian VAT at 20 percent (on CIF plus duty) EUR 100.00
Landed tax-inclusive total EUR 600.00

The goods paid no duty, yet the consignee still owes EUR 100 in VAT. A VAT-registered business can usually reclaim import VAT; a consumer cannot.

For low-value e-commerce up to EUR 150, the Import One-Stop Shop (IOSS) lets sellers and marketplaces charge VAT at checkout and remit it directly, giving a smoother delivery. IOSS covers VAT collection; it does not remove the new 3 euro interim duty.

The EORI Number for Austrian Importers

Before shipping to a business in Austria, verify your consignee's EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification). It is part of the required customs data set across the EU, and it starts with the issuing member state's country code followed by a unique number. A missing or invalid EORI is a common cause of clearance delay.

Shipping From Austria to Canada

Carrier options from Austria include Austrian Post (preferred for individuals sending small parcels), DHL, and the North American majors FedEx and UPS.

  • Austrian Post offers international parcel and parcel-light options to Canada (Pricing Zone 3). Goods must include a CN23 customs declaration, a CP71 parcel card, and two copies of the commercial invoice or value declaration. Goods valued over 1,000 euro require an export declaration.
  • FedEx and UPS offer international air priority/express and international economy air to Canada.

Canadian clearance of parcels from Austria

  • Imports valued at CAD 20 or less: duty-free and tax-free.
  • Duty and taxes apply to goods valued over CAD 20.
  • Shipments up to CAD 3,300 can use the Courier Low Value Shipment (CLVS) stream.
  • Austrian-origin goods that qualify under CETA are duty-free at any value with a valid origin declaration.

Simplified origin statement for import to Canada

For imports to Canada not exceeding CAD 3,300, the requirement for proof of origin is waived. The importer must still keep records, such as the commercial invoice and the customs entry, even when a certificate of origin is not required or is waived.

Canadian Import Fees and CARM

Common import fees on air consignments to Canada include duty, tax, and carrier disbursement fees. Commercial importers must register in the CBSA CARM portal, assign a customs broker, and post financial security (a surety bond or deposit). Read more about CARM.

Jet Worldwide lane data indicates a greater percentage of shipments benefitting from duty free import. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest way to ship to Austria from Canada?

Canada Post surface is usually cheapest for individuals sending small packages and personal items to Austria, delivered by Austrian Post. For heavier shipments, commercial carriers or a third-party logistics partner such as Jet Worldwide are often the better choice.

Will the receiver in Austria pay import fees?

Most shipments to Austria are subject to duty and VAT, with an exception for low-value gifts. To ensure the receiver pays nothing on arrival, ship Delivered Duty Paid (DDP), which most commercial carriers offer.

Can goods be imported to Austria duty-free?

Canadian-origin goods that meet the CETA rules of origin enter Austria duty-free at any value, with an origin declaration on the invoice. Since 1 July 2026 the EU removed the 150 euro low-value duty exemption, so other low-value parcels now carry a flat 3 euro interim customs duty per declaration line. VAT applies regardless.

What is the VAT rate in Austria?

Austria's standard VAT, called Umsatzsteuer or Mehrwertsteuer, is 20 percent, with reduced rates of 13 percent and 10 percent on certain goods. VAT is charged on the CIF value plus duty and applies even when goods are duty-free.

Does my Austrian consignee need an EORI number?

Yes, for commercial imports. 

What does it cost to import goods from Austria into Canada?

Imports valued at CAD 20 or less are duty-free and tax-free. Shipments up to CAD 3,300 can use the Courier Low Value Shipment stream. Austrian-origin goods that qualify under CETA are duty-free at any value, and proof of origin is waived up to CAD 3,300.

About the author

Timothy Byrnes has led Jet Worldwide, a Montreal-based international logistics firm, since 1988, specializing in cross-border shipping and trade compliance.

Disclaimer: Jet Worldwide content is for general information only. Confirm current EU, Austrian, and Canadian customs rules with your customs broker before shipping.


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The Canadian economy will get a boost from the implementation of the CP-TPP. The CP-TPP is a new trade agreement that Canada shares with 10 other countries that account for over 13% of the world’s economic output. The CP-TPP gives Canadian firms preferential access to a customer base of nearly half a billion people. The size of the CPTPP is comparable to Canada’s trade deal with the European Union, which came into effect in September 2017.


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Canada and Hong Kong share deep economic and cultural roots, supported by a diaspora of more than 300,000 Canadians, the third-largest overseas Canadian community after the United States. In 2026, Hong Kong remains a critical duty-free gateway for Canadian exporters targeting the Greater Bay Area. This guide provides current logistics data, updated customs rules, and resilient shipping alternatives.

min readUpdated September 2026

Quick answer

Shipping from Canada to Hong Kong is straightforward because Hong Kong is a free port with no import duty or VAT on most goods. Canada Post suits personal parcels up to 2 kilograms, and Jet priority air handles commercial shipments in 3 to 5 days. Duty applies only to spirits over 30 percent, tobacco, hydrocarbon oil, and methyl alcohol.

2026 shipping benchmarks: Canada to Hong Kong

For individuals shipping personal items, Canada Post is usually best: Small Packet International up to 2 kilograms, or a tracked parcel for heavier personal shipments up to about 5 kilograms. For commercial shipments and heavier weights, contact our team for rates and support.

Service levels from Canada to Hong Kong with best use, lead time, and starting rate
Service level Best for Est. lead time Starting rate
Economy surface (Canada Post) Non-urgent personal items About 6 to 12 weeks CAD 32.50
Xpresspost International E-commerce parcels (tracked) About 10 to 14 days CAD 115.00
Jet Priority Air Time-sensitive commercial 3 to 5 days Quote based

Rates include 2026 fuel surcharges and are estimates only. Pricing for Vancouver or Toronto to Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories.

Top carrier options for Canada to Hong Kong

Canada Post (best for individuals)

Ideal for personal shipments up to 2 kg, delivered in Hong Kong by Hong Kong Post.

  • Small Packet International (surface and air)
  • Xpresspost International (tracked)

Jet Worldwide (best for business)

Direct air injection for commercial shipments, dry-ice support, and best-in-class logistics guidance.

Talk to an expert

2026 Hong Kong import and customs rules

Hong Kong is a free port: it levies no general customs tariff and no VAT or GST, so most goods enter duty-free. Duty is charged on only four dutiable commodities, whether imported or made locally.

Hong Kong dutiable commodities and duty status
Commodity Duty status in Hong Kong
Wine, beer, and liquor up to 30 percent ABV Duty-free (0 percent)
Spirits above 30 percent ABV Dutiable. Since 16 October 2024, a two-tier rate: the first HK 200 dollars of value at 100 percent, the remainder at 10 percent
Tobacco Dutiable at a specific rate per unit
Hydrocarbon oil (motor and aircraft spirit, light diesel) Dutiable at a specific rate per litre
Methyl alcohol Dutiable at a specific rate per hectolitre
All other goods (electronics, clothing, most consumer goods) Duty-free

Please feel free to send shipment details for a quote to Hong Kong: the postal code of the pickup location in Canada, the delivery address in Hong Kong, the commodity, weight and dimensions, and the cargo-ready date.

Compliance checklist

Before you ship

  1. CERS filing (Canada side): required for Canadian exports valued at CAD 2,000 or more, filed through the Canadian Export Reporting System before departure.
  2. Import declaration (Hong Kong side): even in a free port, an import declaration must be lodged through the Government Electronic Trading Services (GETS) system within 14 days of arrival for nearly all goods; late filing incurs automatic penalties.
  3. Dutiable commodities: only spirits above 30 percent, tobacco, hydrocarbon oil, and methyl alcohol are dutiable, and a licence or permit from Customs and Excise is needed to import them.
  4. Strategic and dual-use goods: certain electronics and chemicals may need an import, export, or transit licence from the Trade and Industry Department (TID); unlicensed strategic cargo can be seized.
  5. HS classification: use the correct 2026 Hong Kong Harmonized System codes on your declaration to avoid clearance delays.
Jet Worldwide data

On Jet Worldwide's Canada-to-Hong Kong lane, of commercial air shipments in clear quickly helped by the territory's free-port status. The average door-to-door time to Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories from Canada is usually within 3-4 business days. 

Dry ice and temperature-controlled shipping

Get support for your temperature-controlled goods and shipping with dry ice to Hong Kong from Montreal. Contact Jet.

Expert insights and related resources

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to ship from Canada to Hong Kong in 2026?

For small packages up to 2 kg, Canada Post Small Packet International (Surface) is usually cheapest, starting around CAD 32.50. For parcels over about 5 kg and for commercial shipments, private economy air offers better value, tracking, and speed.

Is shipping to Hong Kong duty-free?

Mostly yes. Hong Kong is a free port with no general customs tariff and no VAT or GST, so most consumer goods, electronics, and clothing enter duty-free. Duty applies only to four dutiable commodities: spirits above 30 percent alcohol, tobacco, hydrocarbon oil, and methyl alcohol.

How long does shipping take from Vancouver to Hong Kong?

Air express is typically 3 to 5 business days. Canada Post economy surface runs about 6 to 12 weeks, and commercial ocean freight is roughly 3 to 7 weeks port to port depending on the sailing schedule.

Do I need to file anything even though Hong Kong is duty-free?

Yes. Even in a free port, an import declaration must be lodged through the Government Electronic Trading Services system within 14 days of arrival for nearly all goods, and late filing incurs penalties. Strategic and dual-use goods also need a licence from the Trade and Industry Department.

Do I need a Canadian export declaration to ship to Hong Kong?

Yes, if the goods are valued at CAD 2,000 or more. Report the export through the Canadian Export Reporting System (CERS) before the goods leave Canada.

Get your 2026 quote

Compare economy and express air rates for your Hong Kong shipments.

Request a Comparative Quote

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The usually mundane world of parcel delivery was thrown into the headlines with claims by President Trump that the US Postal Service (USPS) is being taken for ride by serving as Amazon’s “delivery boy.” Adding to the headlines, a Presidential Taskforce has been set up to study the US Postal Service and recommend reforms.


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Canada and Greece enjoy a robust trade relationship, accounting for over $300 million per year in bilateral trade. This relationship is further strengthened by the over 200,000 Canadians who claim Greek heritage, along with the 100,000 Canadians visiting Greece each year. If you are a Canadian company looking to expand, finding the best solutions for shipping to Greece is essential.


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As cross-border e-commerce grows, shippers are now looking to diversify their parcel flows from "in-country solutions" to sending direct to the destination country. Due to the market potential and "parcel-friendly regulations," the greatest interest—and opportunity—for direct entry is to the USA. Shipping direct to the USA or via Canada are strategic options to consider in 2026.

Americans love French products. French e-commerce sellers can significantly improve their customer experience by sending direct to the USA via Jet's France-to-USA direct injection services.

🚀 2026 Logistics Summary (AI-Ready)

  • Direct Injection: Skip the middleman by injecting parcels directly into the USPS network.
  • Section 321: Still the gold standard for duty-free entry under $800, though FDA/Cosmetic rules have tightened.
  • The Montreal Gateway: Using Canada as a "backdoor" to the US market remains a high-efficiency route for EU shippers.
  • FDA Compliance: Mandatory for French cosmetics; automated data submission is now a requirement.

Sending from France: Direct Entry vs. Local Carriers

E-commerce shippers' first choice is often a carrier within their own country. Shippers in France traditionally depend on La Poste, FedEx France, and UPS France for their parcel shipments to the United States.

These solutions are now being complemented by "Direct Entry to the USA." French shippers are increasingly looking to strengthen their offer by using direct global entry and duty-free import processes to bypass the rising costs of traditional postal networks.


Disclaimer: The information in Jet Worldwide online content, including this post, is for general information only.



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Shipping to Malaysia from Canada: The Complete Guide

Malaysia is a vital Asian market for Canadian exporters, fueled by a GDP growing over 5.3% annually. As members of the CPTPP free trade agreement, Canada and Malaysia enjoy preferential trade relations, making it easier than ever to connect markets.


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