Bill C-18: Canada-Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement Implementation Act

This bill most directly affects Canadian importers and exporters who trade goods with Indonesia — think companies bringing in Indonesian textiles, clothing, footwear, seafood, rubber products, palm oil, wood products, ceramics, or furniture, as well as Canadian exporters of agricultural products, machinery, and vehicles. Importers across Canada will see customs duties gradually drop to zero on most goods from Indonesia, which lowers their landed costs and could change sourcing decisions. Canadian manufacturers competing with Indonesian imports — particularly in apparel, footwear, tires, processed foods, and household goods — may face increased price competition. Canadian companies operating in Indonesia will also need to comply with internationally recognized corporate social responsibility and responsible business conduct standards, with a formal complaints process overseen by the Minister for International Trade.