On-the-ground presence in Paris will help Canadian companies pursue growth in the strategic market
PARIS, Oct. 14, 2026 /CNW/ -- Export Development Canada (EDC) today announced the opening of a new representation in Paris, strengthening its ability to connect Canadian companies with customers, partners, financing opportunities and market intelligence in France, a key European market and entry point to opportunities across the continent.
The Paris representation builds on EDC's expanding presence in Europe, including existing representations in the United Kingdom, Germany and Türkiye, and forms part of EDC's broader Europe strategy to help Canadian companies diversify beyond traditional markets.
"France is one of the most dynamic markets in Europe and sits at the centre of many sectors where Canadian companies are well positioned to compete and grow," said Alison Nankivell, President and CEO of EDC. "At a time when trade and investment ties between Canada and Europe are deepening, our presence in Paris strengthens EDC's ability to connect Canadian companies to the relationships, networks and opportunities that will drive growth in France and across Europe, helping them diversify and build long-term success."
As the European Union's (EU) second-largest economy and a hub for trade, investment and innovation, France offers viable opportunities across sectors, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), cleantech and energy, agri-food and agri-tech, defence and security, aerospace and life sciences.
Supported by the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), Canada and France share a strong and growing trade relationship, with France serving as an important European destination for Canadian goods, services and investment. The trade partnership generated $15.2 billion in bilateral merchandise trade in 2025, with $5 billion in Canadian exports to France. Between 2017 and 2025, two-way trade in goods between France and Canada increased by more than 75% under CETA, while trade in services skyrocketed by 97%.
"When Canadian businesses reach new markets, it means more good-paying jobs here at home. That's why EDC's expanded presence in Paris matters," said The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade. "France is Canada's third-largest export market in the EU, and last year EDC facilitated $1.1 billion in business in the country and supported about 600 Canadian companies. As a gateway to the European market, France offers real opportunities for Canadian businesses to diversify and grow, and we're making sure they have the support to seize them."
Working closely with Canada's Trade Commissioner Service, other government partners, as well as industry and financial leaders, EDC's in-market teams combine local relationships and market knowledge with financing and risk expertise to help Canadian exporters identify opportunities, navigate local conditions and advance commercial relationships.
"We're seeing increasing opportunities for Canadian companies as French and European organizations look for trusted partners, innovative technologies and resilient supply chains," said Anna Kane, EDC's Chief Representative in Paris. "Success in international markets depends on having the right relationships, local market intelligence and access to decision-makers. Our presence in Paris will strengthen EDC's ability to connect Canadian companies with customers, partners and projects on the ground, while helping them identify emerging opportunities and navigate a dynamic European market."
Learn more about opportunities in the market and how EDC supports Canadian businesses exporting to France: Doing business in France: Export opportunities | EDC
Customer success stories
Groupe Meloche, from Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec, is an aerospace manufacturer specializing in the design, engineering and production of aircraft components and assemblies. In 2026, EDC provided financing and an investment alongside Novacap and Investissement Québec to support Groupe Meloche's acquisition of France-based Groupe Rossi Aéro. The acquisition expanded the company's footprint in Europe and strengthened its ability to participate in major global aerospace and defence programs serving both civil and military markets.
Les Sauces Firebarns, from Quebec City, Quebec, is a Canadian food manufacturer that produces hot sauces, BBQ sauces and other condiments made from locally sourced ingredients. EDC supported the company by providing export knowledge and guidance to help it navigate international markets, including advice on market entry requirements, regulatory compliance and global growth opportunities. This support helped Firebarns expand into France and other international markets, establish a foothold in Europe and advance its broader export ambitions.
About EDC
Export Development Canada (EDC) is a financial Crown corporation dedicated to helping Canadian businesses make an impact at home and abroad. EDC has the financial products and knowledge Canadian companies need to confidently enter new markets, reduce financial risk and grow their business as they go from local to global. Together, EDC and Canadian companies are building a more prosperous, stronger and sustainable economy for all Canadians. For more information and to learn how we can help your company, call us at 1-800-229-0575 or visit www.edc.ca.
SOURCE Export Development Canada
Media Contact: Media, Export Development Canada, 1-888-222-4065, [email protected]
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