Canada offers a stable and highly developed market with strong demand for advanced technology, sustainability solutions and high-quality industrial equipment - areas where Swiss companies are well positioned.
The economy is driven largely by the services sector, accounting for about 70% of GDP, while manufacturing, mining and natural resources continue to play a strategic role. The mining and oil & gas sector contributes around 5% of GDP and remains central to Canada’s export strength.
Canada is undergoing significant industrial transformation, fuelled by major investments in electric-vehicle and battery production, as well as expanding clean-energy and hydrogen initiatives. These developments support long-term opportunities for Swiss expertise in precision manufacturing, cleantech, mining technology and engineering.
At the same time, high household debt, rising business costs and a persistently weak Canadian dollar require careful planning. Swiss exporters benefit most when combining strong local partnerships with flexible pricing and sound currency-risk management.
Yes
Free Trade Agreement
There is a free trade agreement between Switzerland and this country. Source: State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO
7.93 7.93 billion
Total trade flows
Total goods traded with Switzerland (imports + exports). Source: UN Comtrade. Data as of 2023.
10.47 10.47 %
3-year GDP growth
Total real GDP growth over the last three years. Source: World Bank. Data as of 2023.
What sets Canada apart is its dynamic fusion of traditional industries like mining with growing sectors like electric vehicles; it's thrilling to see investments like Honda's CAD 15 billion push into Ontario, which highlights the market's readiness for innovation.
Steffen Milner
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Get in touch
Do you have any questions about Switzerland Global Enterprise or would you like more information about our services? Contact us directly at one of our three locations or through one of our various communication channels!
- Your point of contact in Switzerland Would you also like to sell your products or services abroad? Or learn more about opportunities in your target market?
- Our branch offices around the world S-GE has its own teams (Swiss Business Hubs, SBHs) in approximately 45 countries. The Swiss Business Hubs are integrated into the diplomatic missions of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
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PDF · 408 KBBusiness Guide
PDF · 608 KBEconomic Report
PDF · 694 KBGet access to exclusive business opportunities in Canada
Event calendar
Stay connected with the latest developments in the industry by participating in our upcoming events. From conferences and workshops to webinars and fact-finding missions.
18-21
Oct
PACK EXPO 2026
PACK EXPO: the industry-defining show you can’t miss!
Chicago, United States of America
27
Apr
International Trade Forum 2027
Be inspired by leading personalities, discover new markets, and make valuable contacts through targeted matchmaking.
Bern, Switzerland
Success stories
Success Stories
FAQs
What is the current economic situation?
Canada is experiencing moderate but uneven growth. The labour market has softened, with unemployment rising to just above 6%, and economic expansion remains subdued. The Canadian dollar has weakened against major currencies, influenced by lower commodity prices and interest-rate differentials with the U.S., which impacts import costs for Swiss exporters. Canada’s current-account deficit remains wide, signalling ongoing external vulnerabilities, and Swiss firms should monitor monetary policy developments and consumer demand closely.
What are the main export and import trends?
Canada’s trade dynamics have shifted as energy exports softened while non-energy exports expanded. Real exports grew despite nominal declines, indicating that sectors such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace and services remain resilient. Imports have been stable overall, with strong demand for machinery, equipment, and technology - all key Swiss export categories. The EFTA-Canada Free Trade Agreement continues to support favourable access for Swiss companies, providing opportunities to expand in high-value sectors.
What opportunities exist for Swiss companies?
Swiss firms can benefit from strong investment cycles in clean technology, advanced manufacturing, electric-vehicle and battery supply chains, and mining. Canada’s growing EV ecosystem and long-term commitments to net-zero emissions offer significant potential for Swiss engineering, automation, precision components, and energy-efficiency solutions. In the mining sector, Canada’s position as a top global producer opens opportunities in machinery, processing technology, safety equipment and environmental solutions.
Which sectors are promising?
Promising sectors for Swiss exporters include clean technology, renewable energy, hydrogen, carbon-capture solutions, advanced manufacturing, EV supply chains, aerospace, and life sciences. Demand for high-quality industrial equipment, engineering expertise and digital transformation solutions is rising as Canadian companies upgrade infrastructure and modernise operations.
What are the main challenges and risks?
Key risks include fluctuating exchange rates - particularly a structurally weaker Canadian dollar - that can affect pricing and margins for Swiss exporters. Regulatory complexity across provinces, supply-chain constraints and high input costs can also impact business performance. Companies should consider hedging strategies, flexible pricing models, and diversified supply chains to mitigate market volatility.
