Strengthening ties with Canada

Growing economic links between Canada and Scotland will be strengthened through a new Scottish Government office in Ottawa.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon hosted a Scotland is Now reception in Canada’s capital city to officially launch the new office and to launch the global marketing campaign to a Canadian audience for the first time.

During the two day visit to Canada, the First Minister will undertake trade and culture engagements in Ottawa and Toronto including opening the Toronto Stock Exchange and a meeting with the Toronto Region Board of Trade.

The First Minister said:

“Scotland and Canada have strong historical links spanning family, friendship and trade. And today, Canada is an important market for Scottish exports, including our growing quality food and drinks products.

“Our new office will encourage investment between businesses in both countries and promote Scotland as a place to work, study and visit.

“Brexit continues to be the biggest threat to our economy so it is more important than ever to reassure our international partners that Scotland remains open for business and is an attractive place to invest.”

Background

In 2017-18 there were 1,050 students from Canada studying at Higher Education Institutions in Scotland.

At March 2017, there were 40 Canadian owned businesses in Scotland, employing 3,710 with an estimated turnover of £3.5bn.