A recent rule change by the Canadian government will allow Canadians to bring more purchases made in the United States back across the border tax-free.

Canadian visitors staying 24 hours in the United States now may bring $200 worth of goods back to Canada, up from a $50 limit for overnight visitors.

Those staying 48 or more hours now may take $800 worth of goods back home to Canada without paying tax or duty at the border. The previous limit was $400.

"These important changes will add rocket fuel to the volume and velocity of cross-border commerce," said Donna Townley, a University of Lethbridge economist who has a second home in Whitefish.

She urged businesses located in key cross-border markets such as the Flathead Valley, Great Falls, Bellingham, Wash., and Spokane to become involved in economic development initiatives such as NXGEN’s Canada Certified so they can take advantage of the increased spending limits.

Canada Certified allows retailers, restaurants and hotels across key U.S. border markets to take Interac PIN debit cards and provide Canadian visitors with credit card receipts in Canadian currency immediately at point of sale.

Canada Certified is a key economic development initiative of area chambers of commerce and retail development organizations and is underwritten by Whitefish-based NXGEN Payment Services.

Deborah Coulson, executive director of marketing and strategy for NXGEN International, said the firm is committed to helping local merchants reap the incremental benefits of Canada Certified that will result from these rule changes.

“Allowing businesses to capitalize on greater Canadian spending power and making them more Canadian business-friendly are the hallmarks of the Canada Certified initiative,” Coulson said. 

Those wanting more information about Canada Certified should contact Anne Britz at (406) 730-7035.