At Canadian Exports, we use the terms Business Categories, Industry Sectors, and Industries interchangeably to help users navigate our platform. These categories are thoughtfully structured and never arbitrary. While the classification process may seem detailed, we take great care to align with internationally recognized trade standards.
All industries featured on the Canadian Exports website are classified according to the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), primarily based on the 2007 and 2012 versions, which have replaced the older 1980 Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) system.
NAICS follows a hierarchical structure composed of:
For example, the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting sector includes five sub-sectors, nineteen industry groups, and forty-one industries. These classifications are largely consistent across the three NAFTA countries—Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
However, each country may add more detailed classifications called national industries (six-digit codes) to capture specific nuances unique to their markets. Because Canadian Exports targets the global market, not just NAFTA, and recognizes that other countries use different classification systems, we have adapted the categories accordingly:
Our goal is to simplify communication between exporters and importers by ensuring consistent language throughout their interactions. We understand this approach might occasionally cause some confusion or overlap—such as similarities between sectors like Manufacturing and Industrial, or overlaps where Chemicals include elements of Agriculture or Energy. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to reach out if you need help with interpretation or clarification.
If the categories don’t perfectly fit your needs, please let us know. We’re committed to assisting you in finding the best fit and improving your experience.
The Canadian Exports Team