Importing French Tea to Canada – Online Store

Clipperton: Your Gateway to Authentic French Tea in Canada

At a Glance

Discover how to enjoy premium French tea in Canada with a specialist who handles every step of the process.

• Clipperton makes importing easy – A family business since 2002, focused exclusively on French products with delivery across Canada and the United States.

• Wide range of French teas – Robust black teas, delicate green teas, refined scented blends, rooibos, herbal infusions, carcadet (hibiscus infusion), plus artisanal creations from prestigious houses such as Dammann Frères.

• Customs formalities handled for you – We take care of all required paperwork (certificates, CFIA/CBSA declarations) for a hassle-free delivery.

• Key buying criteria to check: Authentic French origin, packaging (loose leaf/tea bags), organic certifications, and product freshness.

• For individuals and professionals – Custom discovery gift sets, wholesale for retailers, and privileged access to French artisans.

  
  

Clipperton turns the complexity of importing into a simple shopping experience so that you can savour the excellence of French tea at home in North America.

France imports more than 19,000 tonnes of tea each year. At Clipperton, we’re proud to make high-quality French tea accessible to our North American customers. As the world’s 10th-largest tea importer, France offers a remarkable variety—a variety we bring to Canada and the United States.

We specialize exclusively in importing French products, including premium French tea in all its forms: French black tea, French green tea, and French scented tea. Our online catalogue also features French tea available loose or in bags to suit every preference. Before you buy, consider the tea’s origin, packaging, and freshness—points we monitor closely. All our products meet European regulatory standards. What’s more, since June 2023, import controls have been generalized across France, further ensuring the quality of the goods we select for you.

Clipperton: Your Gateway to French Tea in Canada

For over two decades, our family-run company has introduced North Americans to the authentic flavours of France. Founded in 2002, Clipperton has built real expertise as a bridge between French artisans and gourmet enthusiasts in Canada and the U.S., offering a curated selection and specialist service. Our focus on French tea lets us bring an exceptional tasting experience to our North American clientele.

Our Mission: Import Exclusively from France

Our philosophy is simple: we work only with French producers. This focus sets us apart and allows us to build close relationships with carefully selected French artisans. Our team travels across France to find the very best—classic teas and inventive new creations alike.

We’re passionate about connecting North American consumers with French excellence. Our catalogue features only high-end teas produced in small batches by dedicated artisans—guaranteeing authenticity and outstanding quality in every product.

Every tea in our selection is tasted and assessed for flavour and quality. We place special emphasis on French black teas—valued for their robust character—French green teas with their delicate notes, and French scented teas whose aromas delight even the most discerning palates. Our range also includes artisanal French teas that showcase unique savoir-faire.

Shipping to Canada and the United States

We ship throughout Canada and the U.S., so tea lovers across North America can explore the wonders of French tea. Each parcel includes a tracking number so you can follow your order in real time—an essential part of the transparent, high-touch service we aim to deliver. Thanks to our carrier partnerships, we also offer competitive shipping rates.

Our forwarding system is designed to ensure your French teas arrive in the best possible condition. Whether you’re in Vancouver, Montréal, New York, or San Francisco, you can order with confidence—your tea will reach you quickly and in perfect shape.

Why Choose a Specialist Importer?

Working with a specialist like Clipperton offers many advantages. First, our expertise in gourmet French imports helps us navigate complex customs and regulatory requirements efficiently. That means we provide products that comply with Canadian and U.S. standards.

As French-tea specialists, we have an in-depth understanding of varieties and their unique characteristics. We can guide you toward the teas that best match your taste preferences.

Our selection spans a wide array of superior French products—not only teas but also oils, vinegars, mustards, spices, chocolates, jams, and more—so you can explore the richness of French gastronomy in one online shop.

Our clientele includes discerning connoisseurs and food-service professionals—specialty shops, cheesemongers, chefs, butchers, and hotels. Their trust speaks to the quality of our products and service.

Choosing Clipperton means premium products and personalized support as you discover France’s gastronomic treasures.

Customs Regulations for Importing Tea into Canada

A rigorous regulatory framework governs food imports to Canada. As a specialist importer of French tea, we manage this administrative maze daily so you can enjoy the best products without the hassle. Here’s what matters most.

Canadian Standards for Food Products

To ensure safety and quality, Canada imposes strict standards on imported foods. For premium French teas, the requirements primarily concern:

• Pesticide residue limits – Teas must comply with the maximum residue limits (MRLs) set by Health Canada.

• Mandatory bilingual labelling – Packaging must list ingredients, potential allergens, best-before date, and the importer’s contact details in both English and French.

• Storage and transport conditions – Standards also specify how tea must be transported and stored.

  
  

French teas we import are already subject to some of the world’s most stringent EU regulations. This typically facilitates acceptance by Canadian authorities, as EU standards are often aligned with—or exceed—Canadian requirements.

For French teas and scented blends, we pay particular attention to rules covering additives and flavourings. Our selections—French black tea, French green tea, and French scented tea, whether loose or bagged—are fully compliant.

Required Documents for Import

Importing French tea into Canada requires several essential documents, all of which we prepare meticulously for every shipment:

• Detailed commercial invoice listing precise product descriptions, values, origin, and consignor/consignee details.

• Certificate of origin confirming the tea is from France.

• CFIA declarations required for certain products to ensure smooth entry.

• Import declaration submitted to the CBSA before arrival.

  
  

In some cases—especially for large volumes of loose French tea—microbiological analyses may be required to confirm the absence of contaminants and pathogens.

We handle all of this documentation end-to-end. Our expertise lets us anticipate requirements and avoid costly delays at the border, ensuring smooth delivery to Canada and the U.S.

The Role of the CFIA and CBSA

Two agencies are central to importing tea into Canada:

• The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA / ACIA) oversees food safety and ensures imported products meet standards. It may conduct random inspections of French tea shipments to verify compliance, focusing on product safety, labelling compliance, organic certifications where applicable, and the absence of prohibited contaminants.

• The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA / ASFC) manages customs clearance. Officers verify import documents, assess duties and taxes where applicable, and authorize entry.

  
  

Our experience with both agencies helps us prepare impeccable import files. For French tea gift sets and presents, we also ensure packaging meets Canadian requirements.

Bottom line: customs can seem complex, but our specialized expertise ensures a worry-free experience. We handle the formalities so you can simply enjoy the exceptional aromatics of French tea delivered to your door in Canada or the United States.

Types of French Tea Available for Import

The diversity of French teas we import reflects the country’s deep tradition in the art of tea. We trust the expertise of houses like Dammann Frères, who carefully select each variety to offer North American customers an authentic tasting experience. Below are the main categories.

We also carry these infusion families:

• Rooibos (hugely on-trend because it’s naturally caffeine-free!) – an incredible selection, such as Rooibos Carrot Cake or Rooibos Citrus.

• Carcadet (hibiscus-based infusion) – a fresh, tangy delight that’s superb iced in summer (for example, Carcadet Passion-Raspberry).

• Herbal infusions – chamomile is Dammann Frères’ standout infusion, alongside blends like Merveilles and Bergers.

  
  

French Black Tea

Black tea is the most widely consumed in France and a cornerstone of our catalogue. Known for its whole body and malty notes, French black tea stands out for finesse and balance.

Our French black teas primarily come from emblematic houses like Dammann Frères, with exclusive blends such as “Breakfast Français” and “Goût Russe,” both favourites among Canadian customers.

Hallmarks of French black tea include:

• Full leaf oxidation for exceptional aromatic richness.

• Woody, malty, or fruity notes, depending on the blend.

• Excellent cup structure—perfect for breakfast or an afternoon French-style tea time.

  
  

Black tea also travels beautifully, maintaining quality throughout transatlantic shipping and storing well when appropriately kept.

French Green Tea

French mastery shines in the delicate art of green tea blending and scenting. While France doesn’t grow tea, its tea masters excel at assembling and flavouring green leaves.

Among the French green teas we import are classics like Gunpowder and contemporary creations with jasmine, bergamot, or red-fruit notes—praised for freshness and finesse.

Careful leaf selection and treatment preserve the tea’s natural antioxidants and subtle flavours. Canadian and American customers particularly appreciate French green teas for their wellness benefits—paired with the elegant tasting experience only French know-how delivers.

French Scented Tea

France is unrivalled in the art of scented teas—one of the crown jewels of our imports and a true expression of French refinement.

Our scented French teas range from citrus and floral (rose, jasmine, violet) to spiced and gourmand (vanilla, caramel, almond). Each creation balances base tea and aromas with meticulous precision.

A perennial favourite is French Earl Grey, scented with bergamot. Its French interpretation stands out for the exceptional quality of bergamot essential oil and a perfectly judged aromatic profile.

“Thé Français” (French-Style Blends)

“Thé français” is defined by a creative approach and uncompromising ingredient quality. We carefully select these artisanal, often confidential creations so Canadian and U.S. clients can discover something truly unique.

Current trends include blends with Provence aromatics, skilfully dosed spices, and seasonal recipes inspired by French terroirs. Most are offered loose to preserve aromatics, though some are also available in bags for convenience and lower environmental impact.

At Clipperton, we guarantee the freshness and authenticity of every French tea we import—whether timeless classics or innovative artisanal blends—to satisfy the exacting tastes of North American tea lovers.

Streamlined Logistics and Customs

Navigating customs can feel daunting if you’re importing French tea into Canada. We’ve refined every step to ensure a smooth experience for North American customers.

Preparing Shipping Documents

The first crucial step is compiling precise paperwork. As a specialist importer, we handle this complexity for you. Every shipment includes:

• Bill of lading – Official document certifying shipment and setting contract terms between the carrier and the transporter.

• Packing list – Created by the carrier, detailing products and packaging.

• Original commercial invoice – Must align with the packing list.

• Certificate of origin – Confirms French provenance and may unlock preferential tariff treatment.

  
  

To facilitate premium French tea imports, we use our Business Number (BN) issued by the Canada Revenue Agency—required for commercial imports. This enables efficient declarations for French black, green, and scented teas.

Thanks to experience, we’ve built a refined process that prepares documents accurately and fast—avoiding the costly delays common to paperwork errors.

Customs Declaration

The customs declaration is the cornerstone step. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA / ASFC) oversees border formalities and international trade controls at Canada’s frontier. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA / ACIA) sets and enforces food-safety standards.

When importing French scented teas or other varieties, products must meet Canadian MRLs for residues, which can differ from EU rules.

As an expert importer, we prepare our own release and declaration documents to :

• Handle the clearance of imported French teas.

• Pay any applicable duties.

• Prepare and submit the required documents.

• Address CBSA post-release queries.

  
  

This expertise ownership lets us deliver a seamless French-tea shopping experience in Canada and the U.S.

Tracking and Traceability

Once customs are cleared, shipment traceability becomes key. Every French-tea parcel from Clipperton includes a unique tracking number for real-time updates.

Customers can track orders easily through our online platform.

For international parcels, we also use multi-carrier tracking platforms, giving precise location and the latest status. This end-to-end visibility provides peace of mind, whether you choose loose French tea or tea bags.

What to Check Before Buying French Tea Online

Choosing French tea online calls for careful attention to a few essentials. As a specialist importer, we guide Canadian and U.S. customers every day. Here’s what to consider before you check out.

Origin and Traceability

Authenticity starts with provenance. At Clipperton, we guarantee the French origin of all our products. High-end French tea should come from reputable houses like Dammann Frères, known for rigorous and transparent sourcing.

Always look for detailed information on where the leaves originate and where blends are created. A trustworthy importer like us lists these details on the site and on product packaging—proof of commitment to quality and authenticity.

Packaging: Loose Leaf or Bags

Choosing between loose French tea and French tea bags depends on your habits. Loose leaf offers the most authentic experience and lets leaves unfurl fully—ideal for nuanced scented French teas.

Bags are undeniably convenient—especially at the office or on the go. The best bags are Crystal sachets (copyright invented and patented by Dammann Frères) which infuse better than traditional paper sachets.

Organic or Fair-Trade Certifications

If you value environmental and production ethics, look for organic and fair-trade labels. French teas often carry guarantees such as AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Ecocert, certifying no synthetic pesticides and adherence to ecological standards.

Fair-trade certifications ensure fair remuneration for tea growers—an increasingly important factor for North American consumers.

Harvest Date and Freshness

Freshness is key to flavour. French green teas are best within a year of harvest; black and scented teas often keep their character for up to two years. At Clipperton, we regularly rotate stock to ensure optimal freshness across our French tea gift sets and individual references.

Also, check the producer’s storage guidance: airtight, opaque, and moisture-protected packaging preserves a tea’s organoleptic qualities.

Elevate French Tea with Gift Sets

French tea gift sets are a refined way to explore the country’s aromatic richness. As an importer dedicated exclusively to French products in Canada (and exporter to the U.S.), we’ve curated assortments to delight every palate.

French Tea Discovery Sets

Discovery sets are perfect for curious drinkers. They typically contain 5 to 30 different teas, offering a broad tour of French flavours. Popular options include mixed sets of classic French black, green, and scented teas.

Gift Ideas for Tea Lovers

Gifting French tea is more than a present—it’s an invitation to a sensory journey. For purists, we recommend sets without added flavourings for maximum authenticity.

Seasonal sets also make thoughtful gifts, tailored to specific tastes. Beyond tea, our gift boxes can include tea infusers, elegant tea services, or go-anywhere infusion bottles—for a complete French tea ritual.

Shipping & Customer Service for Canada and the USA

For international orders, reliability is everything. We’ve optimized our logistics so your French tea arrives in peak condition—whether black, green, scented, or artisanal.

Typical Delivery Times

Timelines vary by location. In Québec’s metro areas, expect 1–3 business days; in regional areas, 3–6 days. Ontario follows similar timelines: 1–4 days in cities, 4–6 in rural zones.

In Atlantic Canada, delivery ranges from 4 to 7 business days in urban areas and up to 13 days in remote regions. The Prairies and British Columbia are comparable; the Canadian North may also require up to 13 days.

Initial order processing usually takes 48 hours and can extend to ten days during peak periods. You’ll always receive a tracking number for complete visibility.

Clipperton: A Trusted Partner for Distributors

Serving professionals since 2002, Clipperton offers a turnkey solution for retailers seeking to bring premium French tea to North American customers.

Wholesale for Specialty Shops

We supply numerous specialty stores, cheesemongers, hotels, and restaurants across Canada and the U.S. Our catalogue of loose and bagged French teas meets the expectations of connoisseurs and hospitality professionals alike, with robust black, refined green, and signature scented French teas—suited to all retail settings.

Support for Resellers

We actively support partners with our expertise and resources. Whether you need flexible small orders or large volumes, we tailor our service to meet your needs. We monitor sales trends and can advise on French teas most likely to resonate with your clientele.

Access to Renowned French Tea Houses

Our privileged relationships with French artisans give you access to exclusive producers we select with care. We work directly with renowned houses to guarantee authenticity and superior quality. This direct line to French know-how lets you offer unique French tea gift sets and seasonal creations that set you apart.

Conclusion

Clipperton is the ideal partner for anyone seeking French tea in North America. Since 2002, our family business has focused exclusively on importing top-quality French products, making these treasures readily available to customers in Canada and the U.S.

Our range satisfies even the most discerning tastes. French black teas, celebrated for their full-bodied, malty character, remain perennial favourites—green teas charm with finesse and freshness. And scented French teas may be the most authentic expression of French excellence, with icons like Earl Grey with bergamot and signature blends from prestigious houses such as Dammann Frères.

Before buying French tea online, consider the essentials: origin and traceability, packaging that suits your habits (loose for a more authentic experience, bags for convenience), harvest date and freshness, and organic certifications if they matter to you.

At Clipperton, we handle all the customs and logistics so you can focus on enjoying the tea. You get complete tracking transparency, and our customer service is here to help as you explore French flavours.

Whether you’re an individual looking for a discovery set, an enthusiast eager for artisanal teas, or a professional seeking exceptional products for your clientele, our catalogue delivers. Thanks to our trusted network of French producers, you get direct access to the best French creations—delivered to your door in Canada or the United States.

Our passion for French tea and commitment to quality make Clipperton your preferred gateway to the French art of living—one cup at a time.

FAQ

Q1. How can I be sure the French tea I’m buying online is authentic? Check the tea’s origin and traceability. A trusted importer like Clipperton works directly with renowned French tea houses and provides detailed provenance information.

Q2. What are the advantages of buying French tea loose rather than in bags? Loose tea lets the leaves fully unfold for a more authentic flavour, significant with subtle scented French teas. That said, tea bags are more convenient for on-the-go brewing; the best options are pyramidal or muslin bags for better infusion.

Q3. How long will it take to receive French tea in Canada? Delivery times vary by location. For Québec and Ontario, expect 1–6 business days; remote northern regions can take up to 13 days. You’ll receive a tracking number with every order.

Q4. Are there any additional customs fees when buying French tea online? No additional customs fees are charged by us to the customer at checkout for eligible orders we process and clear. (Duties and taxes, where applicable, are handled within our import process.)

Q5. Which French teas are most popular with North American consumers? French black teas—known for a robust profile—are highly popular. Green teas appeal for their finesse. But it’s often scented French teas that best embody French excellence, including Earl Grey with bergamot and signature blends from houses like Dammann Frères. For a caffeine-free experience, rooibos and herbal teas are very much appreciated for their finesse and flavorful blends.