If you’re a B.C. business ready to expand internationally, the United Kingdom (UK) – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – is a promising and well-connected market worth exploring. With a shared language, strong historical ties and an established trade relationship, the UK provides an excellent opportunity for new export growth.  

Like any new market, success in the UK requires an understanding of its economic trends, business culture, sector-specific opportunities and potential hurdles. Here’s a look at what you need to know. 

Market Overview 

The UK is Canada’s third largest trading partner and the sixth largest national economy in the world. With a population of 69 million and a high demand for quality goods and services, it’s a major global hub for finance, innovation and international trade. 

While the UK exited the European single market in 2020, it has created its own trade policies. The Canada-UK Trade Continuity Agreement (Canada-UK TCA) has kept many of the preferential trade terms that existed under Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with Canadian businesses able to access tariff-free trade for many goods and services. 

Doing Business in the UK 

The business culture in the UK is both formal and friendly. Be professional, punctual and polite, and expect some small talk before getting down to business. Directness and clear communication are key, as is trust. Many businesses and businesspeople are looking for long-term relationships, not quick deals or hard sells. It’s also important to understand the regional differences found within the UK. England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are distinct, and each have their own cultural and business norms. Export Development Canada (EDC) offers a more in-depth overview of the UK business culture. 

Sector Opportunities for B.C. Businesses 

The UK has diverse market demands, and there are opportunities to be explored in many areas. 

  • Food and Beverages: With Canada’s excellent reputation as a food producer, there are many opportunities for products such as pulses and grains, processed meats and seafood, snacks, wine, spirits, confectionary and more.   
  • Technology and Innovation: There is high demand for digital innovation, especially in clean energy, cybersecurity, life sciences and AI. Initiatives such as the UK’s new AI Opportunities Action Plan and the Canada-UK Biomanufacturing Collaboration indicate how technology and innovation continue to drive significant potential for exporters. 
  • Tourism: The UK represents the second largest source of overseas visitors to Canada, with 881,000 visitors expected in 2025. Travel to Canada from the UK is still down from pre-pandemic levels, offering tourism destinations and related businesses an excellent opportunity for growth. 

Challenges to consider 

While trade with the UK is relatively easy to manage for B.C. businesses, there are still hurdles to overcome. 

  • Post-Brexit borders: Customs processes have changed, so be sure to understand product standards and certification requirements. 
  • Currency changes: Keep an eye on exchange rates between the Canadian dollar and the British pound. 

Get started 

Ready to explore trade across the Atlantic? Here are some steps to begin: 

  1. Research the demand for your product or service in the UK. 
  2. Examine your brand and marketing to tailor the UK consumer tastes. 
  3. Research tariffs and certifications required to export. 
  4. Work with advisors who can help you understand the UK market and guide you through the process. 

The Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) offers services that can help you do business in the UK.  

Final thoughts 

The UK is one of the most attractive and accessible markets for Canadian exporters. With the right strategy and a good understanding of how to do business in this robust, opportunity-filled market, you can build long-term success abroad. 

Connect with an Export Advisor today to get tailored support for your export journey to the UK.