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Economic Advantage

Extraordinary Record

"Canada is better placed than many countries to weather the global financial turbulence and worldwide recession. Its resilience can be attributed to three factors: First, a track record of sound macroeconomic policy management has left the country in prime form at the beginning of the global turmoil …Second, the authorities responded proactively to the crisis …Third, the focus on financial stability. "

Charles Kramer, Division Chief, Western Hemisphere Department, International Monetary Fund. March 2009

Take Canada’s prudent fiscal policy, low inflation, interest and unemployment rates, and a corporate tax framework that is among the best in the world.  Factor in Canada’s status as an emerging energy superpower, the only stable and growing producer of this scarce commodity. Add to that the country’s strategic investments in technology, education and healthcare. The result is perfectly ideal conditions for businesses to grow and prosper.

According to Dun & Bradstreet’s Global Risk Indicator, Canada is considered one of the world’s safest countries to invest, due to the relatively mild slowdown experienced as a result of the global credit crisis. In addition, the Canadian Business’  Prosperity Potential Index (October 2009) ranks Canada first in the G7 for the likelihood of a strong and healthy economy in the year 2020.

AAA credit rating: In response to Canada’s improved fiscal balance sheet and excellent long-term growth prospects, the country has enjoyed a AAA international credit rating (the highest rating) from Moody’s Investors Services since 2002.
In the mid-1990s, Canada’s total net debt-to-GDP ratio was the second highest in the G7. Today, it is the lowest. The Economic Intelligence Unit projects Canada’s inflation rate of 2.1% to remain the same for the next five years, compared to 3.2% for the U.S.

Banks You Can Bank On

The global economic crisis may be deepening, but Canadian financial institutions remain resilient. For the second year in a row, the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report has found that Canada has the soundest banking system in the world. Canada's well-regulated financial institutions, banks, trust companies, cooperatives, insurance companies and stock exchanges, have demonstrated stability and competitiveness that has made their services popular around the world. The financial sector has become one of Canada's major export earners since the worldwide liberalization of financial regulations. Canada’s other financial institutions are equally impressive, offering investment opportunities that are both lucrative and safe.

Support When You Need It

Canada's Export Development Corporation (EDC) provides trade finance and risk management services to Canadian exporters and foreign investors.