Country Information Export Development Canada Europe and CIS

United Kingdom

The U.K. offers a prosperous consumer market, a skilled global workforce, and the number-one European destination for foreign direct investment.

Country Info | United Kingdom

Evaluating the market in the United Kingdom

We can help you get a better understanding of market activity, relationships and support to grow your business.

EDC Position

EDC Country Position - Open

Open

What this means:

  • Actively pursuing business
  • All EDC solutions are available in this market, subject to regular approval criteria
How does EDC determine the position?

Risk Rating

EDC Country Position – Low Risk

Low Risk

What this means:

The Commercial Country Ceiling (CCC) Risk Rating is measured from low to high, and is meant to represent the best possible rating that can be assigned to a commercial business (obligor) in a country.

How does EDC determine the risk rating?

Business environment in United Kingdom

In 2016 the UK was Canada’s third largest merchandise export market with Canadian exports reaching C 17.1 billion, as well as being the largest destination for Canadian direct investment in Europe, with a total stock of approximately 92.9 billion. This is in large part due to historical and cultural linkages. Nonetheless, the UK's vote to leave the EU has had negative repercussions and the economy is widely expected to slow down with high uncertainty impacting consumption and investment decisions. This all comes at a critical moment as the UK negotiates the terms of its exit from the EU. From a sector perspective, EDC sees strong opportunities in the Cleantech & Renewables, Mining & Metals, Oil & Gas, infrastructure and Transportation, ICT and Medical Technology & Devices. It should also be noted that the UK has a highly accommodating business environment, ranking seventh out of 138 (World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report) making it an attractive location for investment. EDC serves Canadian companies in The United Kingdom through our local representation in London.
  • Aerospace 
  • Construction & Infrastructure 
  • Mining & Metals
  • Oil and Gas
  • Rail
  • Renewable Energies 
  • Telecom
  • Transportation Services

Here’s a helpful tip for doing business in the U.K.

Your UK meeting partners may appear detached during negotiations, but fear not: they tend to make decisions based on facts rather than emotions – and they prefer win-win deals.

Unlock key contacts in the U.K. when you download our Market Entry Advisor Guide.

International Trade Solutions

We understand opportunity

With our knowledge and solutions, you can take on the world knowing that we've got your back.

Access more insights on this country

Business etiquette in UK

Royal wedding brief: 8 rules of business etiquette in the UK

Blog May 18, 2018 8 etiquette rules when conducting business in the United Kingdom.

Export Insights from Masitek

New Brunswick's Masitek finds export success in high-potential markets

Article Masitek's CEO Tracy Clinch gives advice on best practices for exporting globally, and what she would have done differently.

Masitek EDC Feature

Masitek helps global companies minimize product damage with technology

Article New Brunswick's Masitek is helping companies worldwide minimize product damage and losses with their devices that mimic real foods in shape, size and weight.

We can help you succeed internationally. Speak with a Trade Advisor today to learn how.

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Alicia McCarthy

Senior Trade Advisor, EDC

Alicia McCarthy Senior Trade Advisor, EDC