Where Champions Begin
Duty-Free Status Continued
CTHS Applauds Continued Duty-Free Status Under Revised U.S. Tariff Orders
On Wednesday, April 2nd, President Donald J. Trump announced a sweeping update to the United States’ global tariff structure, aimed at enhancing national and economic security. Among the updates, thoroughbred industry stakeholders received positive news: horses eligible under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) will continue to cross the U.S.-Canada border duty-free.
The announcement came via the White House’s release of the Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Declares National Emergency to Increase Our Competitive Edge, Protect Our Sovereignty, and Strengthen Our National and Economic Security. You can read the full document here.
As outlined in the fact sheet:
“For Canada and Mexico, the existing fentanyl/migration IEEPA orders remain in effect, and are unaffected by this order. This means USMCA-compliant goods will continue to see a 0% tariff...”
Under the USMCA, thoroughbred horses (classified under Codes 0101.21.00 for pure-bred breeding animals and 0101.29.00.20 for others used for racing) retain their status as duty-free goods, ensuring uninterrupted cross-border movement vital to the industry.
In response, Prime Minister Carney has announced that the Government of Canada will be responding to President Trumps tariff orders by matching the U.S. approach with a 25% tariff on all vehicles imported from the U.S. that are not compliant with USMCA. There being no reference to any other counter tariffs, this would indicate that Canada, like the U.S., will maintain the status quo as it relates to the USMCA agreement.
This is exceptional news for our community. The continuation of duty-free transport recognizes the long-standing and mutually beneficial relationship between Canadian and American thoroughbred breeding and racing operations.
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the many industry members, organizations, and government officials in both countries who voiced the importance of this issue. Your dedication and collaboration were instrumental in protecting the interests of our cross-border industry.
We also express our deep appreciation to U.S. businesses and officials who engaged with our concerns and understood the economic and cultural significance of our thoroughbred trade.
Please Note:
- Continue to carry appropriate documentation when transporting horses, including proof of foaling location (USA or Canada).
- If you encounter any issues at the border, please notify us immediately so we can provide support.
We will continue to monitor developments closely and we will keep our members informed of any changes.
With appreciation,
The National Board of Directors
Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (CTHS)
2024 Digital Mixed Sale
Thank-you!
A huge thank-you for the incredible support shown during our inaugural digital sale. This event was a significant milestone for the CTHS, and it wouldn’t have been possible without each of you — our buyers, consignors, owners, and supporters.
To all who participated, your enthusiasm for this innovative approach is much appreciated. You have helped pave the way for a modernized, accessible marketplace for Canadian thoroughbreds.
This event was a proud step forward for the CTHS, and we look forward to building on this momentum together.

2024 Canadian Premier
Yearling Sale Success!
The Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (Ontario Division) is proud to announce the outstanding success of its recent Yearling Sale, which concluded with record-breaking results. The event, held at the Sales Pavilion at Woodbine Racetrack on August 28, showcased the strength and vitality of the Canadian Thoroughbred industry, attracting buyers from across the country and beyond.
This year's sale featured an impressive catalogue of high-quality yearlings. Key highlights from the sale include:
Top-Priced Yearling: A colt by Nyquist out of Mrs. Hudson by Street Cry achieved the highest price of the sale, selling for $250,000. Bred by David Anderson of Anderson Farms and consigned by Bernard and Karen McCormack of Cara Bloodstock.
Strong Average and Median Prices: The average price per yearling reached $26,500, an 11% increase from 2023. The median price of $19,000, a 27% increase from the previous year.
Top Ontario Sire: Adena Spring’s sire Silent Name led all Ontario Sires with a total of $371,000 in sales.
Record Online Engagement: Viewership for the online broadcast soared to new heights, accompanied by a record-setting volume of sales through online bidding.
The CTHS extends its gratitude to all breeders, consignors, buyers, supporters and sponsors who contributed to the sale's success. This year's results are a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in breeding and raising top-class Canadian Thoroughbreds and are a clear indication of the growing reputation on the national and international stage.
“On behalf of the CTHS, we thank and commend our Ontario breeders for bringing forward an exemplary group of Ontario sired and bred horses.” said David Anderson, President of the Board of Directors. “Our sale continues to produce champions and offers a great return on investment for buyers. Thanks to everyone who bid and purchased. Thank-you to our Board, Management and all of our industry supporters who helped make this the most successful sale we have had in recent years.
The CTHS remains committed to promoting and supporting the Canadian Thoroughbred industry and looks forward to building on this success in future sales. Plans are already underway for next year's event, which promises to be even bigger and better.
We've Moved!
We look forward to welcoming you at our new location!
93 Skyway Avenue, Suite 106
Toronto, Ontario W9W 6N6
Come by for a coffee and check it out.
