The European Union (EU) is the world’s second-largest economy, home to more than 450 million consumers across 27 member states. It offers Canadian businesses a highly integrated market with harmonized regulations, robust rule of law, and strong intellectual property protections.
For Canadian exporters, the EU is a strategic partner, particularly since the implementation of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) in 2017. CETA has eliminated most tariffs and opened new opportunities across goods, services, procurement, and investment.
The EU Chamber of Commerce in Canada (EUCCAN) is developing into the business voice of Europe in Canada, coordinating EU chambers across the country and supporting the implementation of CETA. Through its CETA Market Access Program, EUCCAN helps EU businesses maximize opportunities in Canada while also establishing stronger communication channels with Canadian firms looking to expand into the EU. For businesses in Surrey & White Rock, this creates valuable two-way pathways for trade and partnership.
- Unified Market Access: Direct entry into a 27-country bloc with harmonized rules and consumer protections.
- CETA Advantage: Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) gives Canadian exporters tariff-free or preferential access.
- Institutional Support: EU Chamber of Commerce in Canada (EUCCAN) and EUCCAN West provide networks, resources, and advocacy.
- Innovation & Clusters: Europe is a global leader in cleantech, hydrogen, advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and digital markets.
- ESG Leadership: The EU sets high standards for sustainability, carbon reduction, and responsible supply chains — positioning itself as a critical partner for green investment.
- Strategic Location: Access to neighboring markets through the EU’s network of global trade agreements.
Canadian businesses can leverage the EU for:
- Cleantech and hydrogen pilots aligned with the EU Green Deal
- Life sciences and biopharma partnerships in established research hubs
- Semiconductors and advanced digital services
- Agri-food exports including seafood, grains, and specialty products
- Innovation collaborations through EU research and funding programs
Entry Links:
Strengthening Trade Ties Between the European Union and British Columbia with Ceta
Join us for an informative and timely webinar focused on strengthening trade connections between British Columbia and the European Union through the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). With increasing uncertainty surrounding Canada–U.S. trade relations, this session will showcase the untapped potential of CETA as a stable, competitive, and accessible framework for doing business with France and the broader EU market. Since 2024, a collaborative initiative between the French Treasury, Expertise France, and Global Affairs Canada has deployed an “International Trade Expert” to promote CETA and support Canada-EU trade relations.
This event offers British Columbia companies and trade advisors a rare opportunity to deepen their understanding of CETA provisions, discover practical tools, and explore promising import/export sectors between France and BC.
What You’ll Learn: Key CETA provisions that support cross-border trade (tariff elimination, labour mobility, procurement, services liberalization) Regulatory compliance essentials (HS codes, rules of origin, labelling, certifications, IP) How to maximize financial and operational benefits from CETA Introduction to France-Canada trade facilitators who can help you access the European market How CETA serves as a strategic alternative to U.S.-based trade amid global uncertainty.
Presentation by Eric Petersson – Global Affairs Canada
Presentation by Jean-Toussaint Olivieri-Battestini of Expertise France
