OVERVIEW
Canada is a country located in North America, known for its vast natural landscapes, multicultural society, strong social systems, and reputation for politeness and inclusivity. It is celebrated for breathtaking wilderness areas like the Rocky Mountains and Niagara Falls, cultural traditions such as ice hockey, and contributions to arts and music from figures like Leonard Cohen and Margaret Atwood.
Its capital, Ottawa, is a center of government and heritage, with landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, while cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montréal showcase Canada’s diversity, innovation, and vibrant cultural life.
In 2023, Canada ranked:
- 10th in terms of GDP, currently valued at $2.14T, out of 195 economies in the world;
- 10th in terms of total exports out of 226 countries;
- 22nd in terms of GDP per capita, valued with current US$, out of 196 economies in the world.
ECONOMIC COMPLEXITY RANKING
EXPORT
In 2023 it was estimated that the principal products that were exported from Canada were:
- Crude Petroleum – $106B;
- Cars – $38.1B;
- Gold – $24.7B;
- Refined Petroleum – $14.8B;
- Petroleum Gas – $14.3B.
On the other hand, the commonest destinations for Canada’s exports were:
- United States – $416B;
- China – $28B;
- United Kingdom – $13.6B;
- Japan – $12.5B;
- India – $6.98B.
Lastly, it was revealed that, in the latest year, Canada was the world’s 10th largest exporter overall, with total exports rising by $115B in the last five years, from $451B in 2018 to $566B in 2023.
IMPORT
In 2023 it was estimated that the principal products that were imported into Canada were:
- Cars – $38.4B;
- Motor Vehicles; parts & accessories – $20.9B;
- Delivery Trucks – $20.7B;
- Refined Petroleum – $16.6B;
- Crude Petroleum – $16B.
On the other hand, the commonest origins of Canada’s imports were:
- United States – $291B;
- China – $61.4B;
- Mexico – $33.4B;
- Germany – $14.6B;
- Japan – $13.9B.
Lastly, it was revealed that, in the latest year, Canada was the world’s 11th largest importer overall, with total imports rising by $85.1B in the last five years, from $464B in 2018 to $549B in 2023.
YEARLY TRADE
During the last five reported years, the exports of Canada have increased by an amount of $115B from $451B in 2018 to $566B in 2023.
The most recent exports are led by:
- Crude Petroleum – $106B;
- Cars – $38.1B;
- Gold – $24.7B;
- Refined Petroleum – $14.8B;
- Petroleum Gas – $14.3B.
They were exported primarily to:
- United States – $416B;
- China – $28B;
- United Kingdom – $13.6B;
- Japan – $12.5B;
- India – $6.98B.
SWEET FACT: CANADA AND MAPLE SYRUP
Beyond its economic achievements, Canada is also famous for one of the sweetest traditions in the world: maple syrup. The country produces about 71% of the global supply, with the province of Quebec alone responsible for most of it. Every spring, Canadians celebrate the “sugar season” in rustic sugar shacks, where families and visitors enjoy maple‑infused meals and treats. This tradition is more than just food: it reflects Canada’s deep connection to its natural environment and its ability to turn resources into cultural identity.
CONCLUSIONS
In 2023, Canada remained a leading global economy, driven by resource exports, automotive manufacturing, and financial strength.
Its trade network, anchored by the United States and diversified across Asia and Europe, continued to support growth, while its balanced mix of natural resources and innovation sustained its role as a resilient and influential market worldwide.
