China

Nominal GDP (2007)
USD 3,241.8 billion

Population (2007)
1,321.3 million

Total Trade / GDP
65.3%

Currency
Yuan (Renminbi)

Merchandise Imports from Canada (Jan-Aug 2008)
CAD 6,8390 million (+14.8%)

Main imports
Industrial Machinery (21%)
Textiles (9%)

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EDC in China 2007 (excluding Taiwan, Macao & Hong Kong)

Canadian companies assisted
276

International buyers insured
341

Business volume (CAD$)
1,698.1 M

Country Information

China

China consistently ranks as one of Canada’s top five export destinations.  The country’s strong economic growth continues to offer extensive opportunities for Canadian export businesses and investors. China is the base of manufacturing operations for many Canadian companies that have incorporated the advantages of China’s low cost of production into their global supply chains.  However, in a market experiencing rapid evolution, there are potential credit, regulatory and CSR risks that must be mitigated wherever possible. 

EDC's Position

  • Actively seeking new business
  • Open under all programs, subject to EDC's regular approval criteria
Canada’s strengths in natural resources, agricultural, information and communication technologies, educational services, automotive and environmental technologies make China a natural business partner to explore.  In addition to these sectors, EDC will look at transactions in any sector in which Canadian companies have found opportunities. 

With representations in Beijing and Shanghai covering Greater China, EDC provides on-the-ground support to Canadian companies doing business in China. EDC’s regional representatives have developed strong relationships with major local clients and have created an extensive network of local contacts. EDC is well positioned to help Canadian companies finance and manage credit risk associated with sales to Chinese buyers, and to support Canadian Direct Investment Abroad and Canadian affiliate operations in China.

What is China Buying from Canada?
Canadian Export to China, 2007
Ranking Sector CAD$
1 Industrial Chemicals 1,485,261,032
2 Paper & Products 1,454,335,988
3 Non-Ferrous Metals 997,763,065
4 Metals, Ores, Non-metallic Minerals 987,208,476
5 Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry, Fishing 651,777,518
China's Fastest Growing Sectors
Forecast of Domestic Market Growth, 2009
Ranking Sector %
1 Non-Ferrous Metals 32.4
2 Pottery & China 26.1
3 Motorcycles & Bicycles 23.3
4 Textiles 22.8
5 Agriculture, Hunting, Forestry, Fishing 22.5
Source: EDC Economics.