Known for its rich natural resources, advanced industries, and strong global connections, Canada is one of the world’s most active trading nations. To stay connected with global markets, trade plays a huge role in Canada’s economy, which helps the country to grow and expand. From oil and metals to vehicles and technology, a large part of Canada’s GDP depends on exports.
Over the last few years, Canada has built a strong international reputation for high-quality products, reliable trade relationships, and ethical business practices. Because of its trade policies and free trade agreements, the country can export goods to regions like North America, Europe, and Asia with ease.
In this guide, we will discuss in detail Canada's major exports, top trading partners, and the new trends that are changing the Canadian trade market. We will also discuss how digital platforms make it easier for businesses to find real trade data and reach buyers in other countries.
Canadian Export Economy Overview
Among the top 10 exporters in the world, Canada is a global trading powerhouse. The country’s trade economy relies on its natural resources, strong industries, and important trade deals. Exports play a major role in the nation’s income, making up about two-thirds of the total GDP.
The export growth of Canada is influenced by many factors, such as modern technology, vast natural resources, and a wide range of free trade agreements. Canada’s strong trade agreements, such as CUSMA, CETA, and CPTPP, help Canadian products reach millions of customers around the world.
The major ports like Vancouver, Montreal, and Halifax play an important role in export performance. Every year, these ports move millions of tonnes of goods, making it easier for businesses to reach markets in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Canada continues to grow as a reliable export leader because of these strengths. Focusing on innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness, its economy and trade policies are well-balanced.
Canadian Trade Statistics 2025
|
Period / Metric |
Exports (CAD / US$) |
Imports (CAD / US$) |
Trade Balance / Deficit |
Notes / Highlights |
|
Q2 2025 (Canada current account) |
— |
— |
CAD −21.2 billion (deficit) |
Canada's current account deficit widened to record level, driven by a large goods trade deficit. |
|
Q2 2025 – Goods & Services Trade |
Goods exports: CAD 182.2 billion |
Goods imports: CAD 201.8 billion |
Goods trade deficit: CAD 19.6 billion |
Exports dropped 13.1%; imports fell 4.0% during Q2; services trade nearly balanced (slight surplus). |
|
Trade (goods + services) deficit: CAD 19.5 billion |
||||
|
June 2025 – Merchandise & Total Trade |
Goods exports: CAD 61.7 billion |
Goods imports: CAD 67.6 billion |
Goods trade deficit: CAD 5.9 billion |
Exports rose 0.9% m/m; imports up 1.0% m/m. |
|
Exports (goods + services): CAD 79.7 billion |
Imports (goods + services): CAD 86.3 billion |
Total trade deficit: CAD 6.5 billion |
||
|
April 2025 – Goods & Services |
Goods exports: CAD 60.4 billion |
Goods imports: CAD 67.6 billion |
Goods trade deficit: CAD 7.1 billion |
Largest monthly goods deficit on record. Exports fell 10.8%; imports fell 3.5%. |
|
Overall trade (goods + services) deficit: CAD 7.48 billion |
Service trade: exports CAD 17.9 billion, imports CAD 18.3 billion. |
|||
|
Feb 2025 – Goods & Services (monthly) |
Goods & services exports: CAD 87.8 billion |
Goods & services imports: CAD 90.0 billion |
Trade deficit: – CAD 2.2 billion |
Exports fell 4.8%; imports increased 0.4%. Goods exports: CAD 70.1 billion (−5.5%); Goods imports: CAD 71.6 billion (+0.8%) |
|
Jan 2025 – Goods & Services (monthly) |
Exports: CAD 92.1 billion |
Imports: CAD 88.9 billion |
Trade surplus: CAD 3.2 billion |
Goods exports: CAD 74.5 billion; goods imports: CAD 70.5 billion; services slightly negative balance – 0.8 billion. |
|
Canada – U.S. Trade 2025 (Goods, monthly US$ millions) |
(Exports to U.S.) |
(Imports from the U.S.) |
Balance (US$ millions) |
As reported by U.S. Census Bureau |
|
Canada Balance of Trade (monthly, CAD millions) |
Export value (latest) |
Import value (latest) |
Balance (latest, often negative) |
E.g. July 2025: balance – $$4,940 million CAD |
Sources: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/, https://tradingeconomics.com/canada/balance-of-trade
Canada’s Major Export Categories
The following are Canada’s top export product categories:
1. Energy and Natural Resources
Energy resources are one of the most important products in Canada's export economy. To the United States, Asia, and parts of Europe, the country exports large amounts of crude oil, natural gas, uranium, and electricity. In the world, Canada’s oil sands and gas fields make it one of the top energy suppliers. Supporting jobs and local industries, these exports bring billions of dollars each year.
The energy sector plays a huge role in Canada’s environmental and sustainability goals, besides its economic value. To balance growth with environmental care, the country is investing in cleaner solutions and greener production methods.
2. Minerals and Metals
Popular for its strong mining industry, Canada exports valuable minerals such as aluminum, gold, nickel, and iron ore. To support industries such as electronics, construction, and manufacturing, these resources are shipped to countries.
Focusing on safe practices and efficient extraction, Canada’s mining sector is among the most sustainable internationally. Canada’s export of minerals and metals plays a key role in supporting the country’s export industry and helps supply markets around the world.
3. Automotive Industry
The major pillar of Canada’s export is the automotive sector. Canada makes vehicles, auto parts, and engines, most of which are sold to the United States because of strong trade ties through CUSMA. The auto industry here is closely linked to the North American supply chain, with parts and vehicles crossing the border several times during production.
Canada’s automotive exports show the country’s strong skills in technology and manufacturing. Several major automakers have factories in Ontario, which has become a key automotive center in North America.
4. Agricultural Products
The agriculture industry of Canada is both diverse and large. The country exports items such as canola, wheat, soybeans, and seafood to the international markets. Such products feed millions of people around the world and help Canada to manage its reputation for clean and high-quality food production.
In Canada, eco-friendly farming techniques are the key focus. To improve yields while protecting the environment. The demand for seafood is also high across Asia and Europe, especially from Atlantic provinces.
5. Technology and Manufactured Goods
Canada has seen rapid growth in technology-based exports in the past few years in the aerospace parts, machinery, and electronic products sector. From a resource-based economy to one driven by innovation and technology, these high-value goods show how Canada is changing.
Especially from Quebec, aerospace exports have gained international recognition. Supported by labor and advanced manufacturing systems, machinery and electronics exports are also expanding. Such industries represent the future of Canadian exports, combining creativity with technical support.
Canada’s Top Export Destinations
Below are the list of Canada’s major trade partners 2025:
1. United States
Canada's top trading partner is the USA. Canada and the United States have one of the biggest trading partnerships in the world. Their close ties and open borders help Canada send energy products, vehicles, machinery, and industrial equipment to the U.S. each year.
As industries on both sides rely on each other for supply chains and materials, both countries benefit from this independent trade. The CUSMA agreement helps keep this strong partnership going and makes sure trade remains smooth and fair.
2. China
With growing demand for natural resources and agricultural goods such as lumber, soybeans, and seafood, China is one of Canada’s top export markets. The partnership remains strong due to China’s massive consumer base and industrial needs, despite some trade challenges and political tensions.
Since the pandemic, Canada has been working to grow and balance its trade with China, aiming to create stable and safe opportunities for Canadian exporters.
3. United Kingdom
For Canada, the United Kingdom is another key export destination. Canada continues to export goods such as machinery, gold, and seafood to the UK, with the CETA agreement and post-Brexit trade arrangements.
The trade relationship of both countries is based on common values that make trade smooth and beneficial. In the UK market, Canada’s growing tech and service sectors are also finding new opportunities.
4. Japan
In Asia, Japan is one of Canada's strongest partners. From Canada, the country imports lumber, seafood, and technological components. With the help of the CPTPP agreement, the trade relationship between these two nations has grown steadily, and the agreement provides easy access to the market. Consumers in Japan value Canada’s safe and high-quality products, which makes Canada a reliable supplier in the region.
5. Mexico, Germany, and South Korea
The other growing export markets are Germany, Mexico, and South Korea. Germany is the leading European market for Canadian machinery and chemicals, while Mexico is an important part of North American trade. South Korea is another major country that imports Canadian resources at a high rate, including agri-food products, which makes it an important trade partner in Asia.
These types of markets show how much Canada is diversifying its trade reach beyond North America and increasing its global reach.
Trends and Challenges in Canadian Trade
|
Trend / Challenge |
Description |
Impact on Canadian Trade |
|
Geopolitical and Economic Shifts |
Shifts in global politics and trade are shaping the way Canada works with other major economies. |
Canada is building relationships with more trade partners and focusing on stable markets to keep exports growing steadily. |
|
Sustainability and Green Goals |
Canada is prioritizing clean energy, technology, and environmentally friendly exports to meet global sustainability standards. |
Enhances Canada's reputation as a green economy leader and opens opportunities in renewable energy, electric vehicles, and clean tech exports. |
|
Digital Trade and Logistics Innovations |
More companies are now using digital platforms to track shipments, manage their supply chains, and connect with other businesses. |
Increases transparency, efficiency, and speed in global trade operations. |
|
Post-Pandemic Supply Chain Resilience |
After COVID-19, companies have put more resources into digital systems, storage, and infrastructure. |
Builds long-term stability and reduces vulnerability to global disruptions. |
|
Climate Policies and Low-Carbon Industries |
New environmental regulations and climate commitments are shaping export strategies and production standards. |
Encourages industries to innovate toward sustainable practices, ensuring competitiveness in global markets. |
|
Balancing Growth and Sustainability |
Canada aims to maintain economic expansion while protecting environmental and social well-being. |
Positions Canada as a forward-thinking, responsible global trade partner. |
Government Support and Trade Resources for Exporters
To help exporters grow, the Canadian government offers many programs. To help businesses expand internationally, organizations like Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) provide insurance, funding, and advisory services.
These types of services help businesses to manage financial risks, explore new markets, and find reliable trade data. Exporters can find details about trade statistics, potential buyers, and export opportunities on government websites. This support helps Canadian businesses compete with confidence in the global market.
Canada’s Export Data by Country
In July 2025, Canada exported $61.9 billion worth of goods. The United States remained the top destination, with $58.2 billion in exports in January 2025, while China received $3.1 billion.
Canada’s Overall Export Snapshot
Total exports: approx US$549–570 billion.
Main commodity categories exported include:
Source: https://tradingeconomics.com/canada/exports-by-country
Future of Canada’s Export Market and Economy
The Bank of Canada expects export growth to average around 2.2% per year in 2025 and 2026, based on its January 2025 outlook. From 2025 to 2030, Canada’s export sector is likely to see steady growth. More attention will go to clean energy, AI, green minerals, and sustainable industries. These areas should help the economy, create jobs, and open up new trade opportunities.
Digital B2B platforms are set to shape the future of Canadian trade. These online tools help businesses connect with partners around the world, share information, and form new relationships quickly. With ongoing innovation and a focus on sustainability, Canada’s global trade is on a solid path forward.
TradeYao - A Trusted Site for Canada’s Trade Data
Reliable data is essential for success in digital trade. TradeYao offers accurate Canadian trade statistics, export insights, and market trends. With this platform, exporters and importers can connect with real business partners, assess product demand, and explore new international markets confidently.
TradeYao Canada trade insights help Canadian businesses make smarter trade choices, stay updated with market trends, and build a stronger international presence. No matter if you are just starting out or already established, TradeYao offers digital trade tools for Canadian exporters to succeed in today’s competitive trade environment.
Conclusion
Canada will continue to grow as an international trade leader. The country’s trade economy is strongly built on strong exports, smart innovations, and reliable partners. The country exports goods that the world depends on, from energy and minerals to vehicles and technology. By using trustworthy sites such as TradeYao and staying updated with current trade trends and opportunities, businesses can build a strong presence in Canada.
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