Canada’s Changing Role in Global Supply Chains

Companies are reorienting along global and regional supply chains. This report assesses the degree to which Canadian companies have integrated into global and regional supply chains over the past 15 years. Contrary to common belief, the share of Canadian export volumes that enter other countries’ supply chains at early stages of production—exports such as raw materials—fell over the last 15 years. Their share has been replaced in part by parts that enter others’ supply chains at a more advanced stage of production. In fact, Canada’s parts trade with most of its major partners has grown significantly, boosting the country’s productivity and living standards. Most of the recent growth came from outside of the U.S., however. And, despite this growth, Canadian companies’ involvement in global supply chains appears still to be limited. Canada’s Changing Role in Global Supply Chains explores what must be done if Canada is to take full advantage of the opportunities arising from rapidly changing global production patterns.

This report was produced by the Conference Board’s International Trade and Investment Centre that examines the implications of global economic dynamics for Canadian business and governments leaders. More on the Centre’s research, events, and membership