Export advisory services

We provide tailored advice to eligible Canadian companies throughout their export journey.

We can help you make informed decisions to succeed internationally, whether you're:

• new to exporting
• exploring new markets
• looking to expand in existing markets

The Trade Commissioner Service’s (TCS) four key services can help you:

• prepare for international markets
• assess your market potential
• connect with qualified contacts
• resolve business problems abroad

Discover how your business can benefit from these services. Your eligibility for these services will be assessed upon request.

If you're a first-time exporter or need help refining your market options and priorities, our Trade Commissioners at regional offices can help you prepare for international business. They will work with you to:

• understand and access support from the global TCS
• refine your business strategy
• identify target markets

To ensure that we provide you with the best available advice, a Trade Commissioner will appreciate information about your business and your goals. Some of the questions they may ask include:

• What advantage does your product or service offer compared with competitors - what makes you special?
• What volume can you produce and export?
• What is your market-entry strategy?
• Who is your desired customer?
• Do you have desired partners or distributors?
• Do you need financing or export insurance?
• Are you seeking entrance into global value chains?

You will receive information and intelligence that helps you determine your level of opportunity in a particular market. It includes identifying the right approach to a market, as well as the effort and resources required to enter that market. We may also provide information about: 

• barriers and regulations 
• the competitive landscape 
• trends and issues 
• market entry strategies 
• business and cultural practices 

The Market Potential Assessment is normally provided by a Trade Commissioner located in-market. When you contact a Trade Commissioner: 

• be clear and specific about your request 
• tell them about why you have focused on that market 
• review the types of information that can be provided with a Market Potential Assessment 
• identify any specific questions you have that reflect these areas 

The more you can share and be specific about, the better we can help you. 

This service provides tailored lists of qualified contacts. When provided by a Trade Commissioner located outside Canada, contacts may include:

• potential partners, buyers, or distributors
• channels to access global value chains
• experts who can support your market entry and strategy implementation
• third-party service providers (lawyers, accountants, customs brokers, etc.)
• contacts in government agencies with responsibilities such as procurement, regulations, or business promotion

With this service, you may also request:

• profiles of specific companies and organizations
• local insights to help assess potential partners
• guidance on how to approach organizations or respond to unsolicited proposals in foreign markets

Depending on the nature of your request, when contacting a Trade Commissioner it may be helpful to include:

• your market strategy
• a description of your ideal buyer, distributor, agent, investor, or partner
• information about the end users of your product or service (in Canada or abroad)
• any organizations you’ve already contacted

When provided by a Trade Commissioner located in Canada, contacts may include:

• referrals to TCS partner organizations such as Export Development Canada, Business Development Canada, or the Canadian Commercial Corporation
• federal, provincial or municipal government officials
• in-Canada service providers with international expertise (lawyers, accountants, customs brokers, etc.)
• Canadian and regional industry and business associations
• chambers of commerce

This service provides advice and assistance to help you understand and resolve business, investment, or market-access problems such as:

• stalled or difficult communications with foreign buyers or partners
• confusing or unfair business practices
• customs classification or clearance issues
• contract bid preparation and procedures
• shipping difficulties
• storage and warehousing options
• issues related to business disputes

When requesting this service, provide your Trade Commissioner with as much information as possible about the problem or challenge. Please tell us whether you have done any previous business in the foreign market.

If applicable, include information received from other Canadian or foreign government officials. Please tell us about any representatives or partners you have in the market and whether we may contact them regarding the problem.