The Canadian economy of the 21st century is diversified. Although Canada sells goods and services around the world, more than 80% of exports and 70% of imports are with the United States.

Canada is evolving into a knowledge-based economy. Service industries now employ three out of four Canadians. More and more, Canadians work in offices, stores or warehouses rather than farms, mines, mills or factories.

Canada’s economic well-being is tied to many factors: the wealth of natural resources; the strength of its manufacturing and construction industries; the health of the financial and service sectors; the ability to span distances using communications and transportation technologies; dynamic trade relationships with other nations; and the ability to compete in a global marketplace.