Trade is crucially important to Nova Scotia.

It drives growth, investment, innovation, and employment.

Trade is not simply about exports and imports; it is about how Nova Scotia earns its living in the global economy.

International trade activities affect the livelihood of each and every Nova Scotian.

• Over the past five years, internationally-traded sectors employed 39% of workers in Nova Scotia - an annual average of 175,000 jobs
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) companies contribute to job creation and the economy
• Every year, about 850 Nova Scotia companies produce exports worth almost $15 billion
• Nova Scotia imports almost $23 billion in goods and services. Many of them have value added here before they are re-exported across the world

The Nova Scotia Advantage

Nova Scotia offers specific advantages to globally competitive companies.

We are close to huge North American markets, and an early port of call for European and Asian shipping lines.

Nova Scotia has province-wide high-speed Internet access and excellent communication networks that can deliver knowledge and services to global markets.

Our efficient Gateway and transportation infrastructure help move information, goods and services efficiently in and out of market.

Businesses located here benefit from Canada’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries around the world.

Our high concentration of universities and colleges produces highly-skilled workers and supports innovation and R&D in growing industries.

Nova Scotia has the essentials, the strengths and advantages to succeed and prosper in the global marketplace—today’s economic reality.

The Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism can help you grow your company internationally.

• Supporting companies to become globally competitive
  In Nova Scotia, there are many programs, agencies and organizations committed to helping you compete globally.
  
  
• Certifying your products and services for international markets
  If you are thinking about exporting your product or service to another country, you are probably thinking about certification. Here is some information about how to approach this complex issue.
  
  
• Government of Canada Links
  The Government of Canada provides many supports, local and international, to help you to compete globally.

Trade-related Publications

jobsHere
jobsHere is the plan to grow the economy of Nova Scotia.

Trade statistics
Department of Finance statistics on trade and economic growth.

Open to the World
Open to the World gives you an inside look into the businesses, communities and people shaping Nova Scotia's economy.

Nova Scotia's Global Integrative Trade (PDF)