Develop and implement the trade diversification strategy for the benefit of the middle class and small businesses seeking export opportunities.

What success looks like

Grow and diversify the base of Canadian exporters in a broader range of international markets, including through enhancement of their export readiness.

Government's narrative on progress

With the goal of increasing Canada’s overseas exports by 50 per cent by 2025, in November 2018 the government announced the launch of an Export Diversification Strategy that will invest $1.1 billion ($810 million in infrastructure; $290 million in programs and services) over the next six years, starting in 2018-19, in helping Canadian exporters and businesses accelerate their presence in new markets made more accessible by Canada's free trade agreements. The Export Diversification Strategy will align with the Innovation and Skills Plan by supporting SMEs, including high-growth, high-potential companies, particularly in emerging technology, digital, and services sectors. To date, the government's trade diversification initiatives include an announced investment of $75 million over five years for diplomatic and trade support in China and Asia, as well as $50 million over five years to help Canadian companies affected by the US tariffs diversify their exports. The Trade Commissioner Service will continue to play an instrumental role in the implementation of the government's trade diversification agenda, and will be working closely with other business and trade development partners to help Canadian exporters succeed abroad.

Note: this is the government's own description, not an independent assessment.