Country Guide: Canada

Americas
Written By Cat

Published: June 2026

Introduction

Canada is one of the world’s most stable and open economies, offering a highly attractive environment for UK businesses seeking North American expansion. As a G7 nation with strong institutions, transparent regulation, and a highly skilled workforce, Canada consistently ranks among the easiest places to do business globally. Key sectors of opportunity for UK firms include clean energy, infrastructure, financial services, technology, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing.

The UK and Canada share deep historical and economic ties, reinforced by the UK–Canada Trade Continuity Agreement, which maintains preferential market access following Brexit. Bilateral trade between the two countries is valued in the tens of billions annually, with significant UK exports including machinery, pharmaceuticals, and professional services. Canada’s commitment to net-zero targets and major public infrastructure investment programmes also present substantial opportunities for UK expertise.

Recent developments of note include ongoing negotiations towards a comprehensive UK–Canada Free Trade Agreement, aiming to further reduce barriers and expand cooperation in digital trade, mobility, and services—areas of particular relevance to UK businesses.

Business Travel

Travel between the UK and Canada is straightforward, with frequent direct flights from London Heathrow and other major UK airports to key Canadian hubs including Toronto Pearson, Vancouver International, and Montréal–Trudeau. Flight times range from approximately 7 to 9 hours depending on destination.

UK nationals travelling for short-term business visits (typically up to six months) do not require a visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) prior to departure via the official Government of Canada website. Business visitors may attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot undertake employment without appropriate permits.

Within Canada, domestic air travel is widely used due to the country’s size, with efficient connections between major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montréal. Urban transport systems are reliable, and taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available.

Business etiquette is broadly aligned with UK norms - punctuality, professionalism, and direct communication are valued. English is the primary business language, though French is widely used in Québec. Canada is considered very safe for business travellers, with high standards of healthcare and infrastructure. Accommodation ranges from international hotel chains to serviced apartments in key business districts.

Events and Exhibitions

Canada hosts a range of internationally recognised trade fairs and industry events that are highly relevant to UK businesses:

  • PDAC Convention (March, Toronto) – Mining and resources; one of the world’s largest mining conventions. https://www.pdac.ca

  • Collision Conference (June, Toronto) – Technology and start-ups; a major global tech gathering attracting investors and innovators. https://collisionconf.com

  • Canadian International AutoShow (February, Toronto) – Automotive sector showcase with strong international participation. https://autoshow.ca

  • Global Energy Show (June, Calgary) – Energy sector, including oil, gas, and renewables; key for firms in energy transition. https://www.globalenergyshow.com

  • SIAL Canada (April/May, Toronto or Montréal) – Food and beverage industry; important for exporters entering the North American market. https://sialcanada.com

These events provide valuable platforms for networking, market entry, and partnership development across multiple sectors.

Shipping and Logistics

Canada’s logistics infrastructure is highly developed, supporting efficient trade with the UK. Major sea ports include the Port of Vancouver (Canada’s largest and a key Pacific gateway), the Port of Montréal (a primary hub for transatlantic trade), and the Port of Halifax, which offers some of the shortest shipping routes to Europe.

Air freight is handled through major international airports such as Toronto Pearson, Vancouver, and Montréal, all of which provide extensive cargo services. Shipping times from the UK to eastern Canada are typically 7–10 days by sea, with longer transit times to western regions.

Customs procedures are administered by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), with clear and transparent import/export requirements. The UK–Canada Trade Continuity Agreement ensures tariff preferences on many goods, although businesses must comply with rules of origin and documentation requirements.

Canada also offers various incentives through provincial programmes and special economic initiatives, particularly in sectors such as clean technology and advanced manufacturing. Engaging experienced freight forwarders and customs brokers is recommended to navigate regional variations and ensure compliance.

Useful Links and Contacts for UK Businesses

Cat
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