This chapter is short. It explains why trade matters to Canada and the three main groups of industries that make up the economy.
Key facts to know
Canada has always been a trading nation, and trade supports Canadians’ standard of living.
Canada enacted free trade with the United States in 1988. Mexico became a partner in 1994 in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
The United States is Canada’s largest international trading partner.
Service industries provide the most jobs, in areas such as transportation, education, health care, banking, retail, tourism and government.
Manufacturing industries make products to sell in Canada and abroad, such as paper, aerospace technology, automobiles, machinery and food.
Natural resources industries are forestry, fishing, agriculture, mining and energy. They have played an important part in the country’s history and still matter in many regions.
Test tip: Learn the three industry types and one or two examples of each. Questions usually ask you to match them.
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These notes summarize the official Discover Canada guide in our own words. Always check the current edition of the guide on canada.ca. Discover Canada Prep is independent and not affiliated with IRCC.