International expansion and exports to Canada

Canada as a market

Canada is one of the world's leading economies, ranking highly in international assessments of government transparency, civil liberties, education, healthcare and economic freedom. Canada also leads the way in responsible business practices.

The Canadian and Norwegian markets have much in common, which means Norwegian export companies can usually establish themselves quickly in Canada. Canada can also serve as a gateway to the wider North American market.

Opportunities for Norwegian companies in Canada

Aquaculture

Canada's aquaculture industry is growing steadily and now produces almost 200,000 metric tonnes in total. Fish farming, primarily salmon, is concentrated off the coasts of British Columbia, New Brunswick and, more recently, Newfoundland and Labrador, while shellfish farming mainly takes place on Prince Edward Island. Bilateral agreements support growth in both Norway and Canada through the exchange of expertise and experience. Canada's aquaculture industry generates almost CAD 1 billion annually and is likely to continue growing as it evolves and expands, driven by rising global demand for seafood. British Columbia is the world's fourth-largest producer of farmed salmon and is also a major producer of mussels and oysters. Get in touch with us to discuss opportunities in Canada's aquaculture industry.

Health technology

Canada has launched a comprehensive strategy for healthcare innovation, both to create new jobs and ensure sustainable health services. There is a growing focus on digital health and connected care across the healthcare ecosystem. Ontario is one of the world's leading regions for healthcare innovation and implementation. Key areas include care coordination, telemedicine, home care, drug discovery, health data sharing and wellbeing. The Toronto area is home to MaRS, a renowned health innovation and commercialisation centre. Canada also offers companies an opportunity to establish themselves in a country with a healthcare sector comparable to Norway's, while gaining a foothold in the North American market.

Energy and the environment

Canada is a global leader in areas such as ocean energy, bioenergy, hydropower and wind power. The country is investing significant resources in cleaner offshore operations, including oil sands and LNG, and is at the forefront of the transition to a green economy. Energy efficiency offers considerable growth potential in areas such as green building, smart metering and improvements to transmission infrastructure. Canada has strong research communities, supported by funding from industry and government. From maritime cleantech and the electrification of ships and ferries to research, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), hydrogen fuel cells, and a focus on development and sustainability in the Arctic, Canada and Norway have opportunities in many of the same areas. Our Toronto office can share our expertise on emerging business opportunities and help you gain a better understanding of the opportunities in the Canadian market.

Oil and gas

Newfoundland and Labrador has significant crude oil reserves and produces around 300,000 barrels of oil per day. Many Norwegian companies have entered the market by developing local business networks in Newfoundland. The Newfoundland region is a hub for Canada's oil and gas industry and for research and development, particularly in connection with future activities in the Arctic. Greater efficiency and better technology are needed to reduce the environmental impact of extraction from Canada's oil sands. Interest is growing in developing LNG facilities on Canada's west coast, where environmental standards and restrictions will be among the strictest in the world. The country's hydrocarbon reserves, resource potential and need for more efficient and effective technology offer many opportunities for Norwegian industry across this market.