Starting to export

Are you thinking about selling to international markets? Exporting can be a rewarding activity, but it should not be entered into lightly.

Find out if you are ready and learn the basics of the export process before you take your business abroad. This information can help you prepare and stay well informed.

• Are you ready to export?
  Comparing your business against known export success factors can help you prepare to take on global markets.
• Writing an Export Plan
  Having a plan can help guide your way to export success.
• Step-by-Step Guide to Exporting
  
  http://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/eng/guide-exporting.jsp
  This guide covers what you need to know about exporting, including international market research, export planning, marketing, finances, logistics and legal aspects.
• International Trade Training Programs
  Explore some learning opportunities to help you understand various aspects of importing and exporting.
• Protecting your Intellectual Property in Export Markets
  If you plan to export, you should protect your intellectual property in foreign markets.
• Organizations that can help you export
  Find out about the organizations that can help you get ready to export.

Finding Business Opportunities in Export Markets

Finding international leads for your products or services can be time-consuming, particularly if you are new to international trade. Fortunately, there is help available to speed up the process.

• Market research
  Find foreign countries with customers that need your products or services.
• Canadian Trade Commissioner Service
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1504/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Get help selling your products or services to foreign markets.
• Virtual Trade Commissioner
  
  http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/eng/virtual-trade-commissioner.jsp
  Get market and sector-specific information, business leads, and enlist the services of trade commissioners abroad. Registration is required.
• Register on Canadian Company Capabilities
  
  http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/ccc-rec.nsf/eng/00008.html
  Increase your business’ visibility by registering on this free promotional database of over 60,000 Canadian companies. This database is used by domestic and foreign buyers.
• Selling to foreign governments
  Expand your market by selling your goods and services to the United States, Mexico and other foreign governments.
• Business Opportunities in Development and Humanitarian Aid Markets
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1130/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Learn about export opportunities in international humanitarian and aid markets.
• MERX – The Government Electronic Tendering Service
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/1040/
  Applies to: All of Canada
  Find opportunities to sell your products or services to governments and other organizations using the MERX system.
• Canada Export Centre
  
  http://www.canadaexportcentre.com
  Generate new business leads by exposing your products and services to thousands of business people, at this full-service export exhibition hall in Vancouver.
• Export Development Services
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/3058/
  Applies to: New Brunswick
  Be export ready! Get one-on-one counselling and specialized services for export-ready companies and existing exporters.
• New England Trade and Investment Initiative
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/3837/
  Applies to: Newfoundland and Labrador
  Get help identifying and taking advantage of business opportunities in New England.
• Ireland Business Partnerships
  
  http://www.canadabusiness.ca/eng/summary/3843/
  Applies to: Newfoundland and Labrador
  Get help identifying and taking advantage of business opportunities in Ireland.