Canada is the world’s second-largest country, with a growing population that has reached 35 million.  Canada is one of the richest and most developed countries in the world, ranking among the top ten global industrial powers.  As of 2010, Canada ranked as having the second highest standard of living among the G-7 countries (based on factors such as GDP per capita, life expectancy, and access to education), allowing Canadians to enjoy a very high ‘quality of life’ (Source: United Nations Human Development Report 2009, 2010).  In recent years, three of Canada’s major cities – including Toronto – consistently rank in the top five among the world’s most livable (Source: Economic Intelligence Unit 2012).
 

In 2012, Forbes Magazine named Canada the ‘Best Country For Business’.  Canada’s competitive business costs, low tax rates, business-friendly public policies, thriving innovation clusters, efficient transportation infrastructure, and access to diverse markets make Canada the ideal, profitable choice for international investors.  Since Canada currently has the G-7’s lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio and is committed to returning to a budget surplus by 2016, Canada is well positioned to continue the pro-business strategies that support long-term economic growth and attract global investment.

​Despite the global financial crisis that began in 2008, Canada’s economy has remained strong.  The Economist Intelligence Unit has identified Canada as the #1 country within the G7 in which to conduct business and invest through at least 2015.  Moody’s currently ranks Canada’s banking system number one in the world, and The World Economic Forum has rated Canada’s banking system the world’s soundest for five consecutive years (2008 – 2012).  While numerous financial institutions around the world were collapsing, no Canadian bank or insurer failed or required a bailout.  Canada's economy has been first among the G-7 to regain the employment losses that occurred during the crisis, and Canada's low inflation and strong economic growth rates have allowed Canada to continue to offer businesses outstanding access to capital, as well as growing trade and investment opportunities across a variety of sectors.
 
Canada is the most desirable country in the world to live, work, and play, and the most lucrative destination for businesses to invest.​