Buy Canadian: Made in Canada vs Product of Canada

Right now, we find ourselves in a bit of a Canada vs. U.S. showdown—only this time, it isn’t hockey-related.  

We’re talking economic tariffs, friends.  

This is the type of showdown where you don’t need to put Connor McDavid on the first line. (Unless, of course, he can also negotiate a killer trade deal!) Rather—you can play an active role by putting your hard-earned loonies towards purchasing Canadian goods and products!  

So, how do you know you’re supporting Canadian?  

You can start by looking for a Made in Canada or Product of Canada label.   

But know this: Made in Canada and Product of Canada can be two very different things. We’ll unpack what they mean to you and your home-grown purchasing habits now!  

Made in Canada products 

So, what exactly does “made in Canada” mean when you see it on a product label? To be deemed “made in Canada” these three things need to be true:  

1. At least 51 per cent of the total direct costs of making the product need to have been incurred in Canada.  
2. The last substantial “transformation” – i.e., assembly–must happen in Canada. 
3. Any qualifying statements, like Made in Canada with imported parts should appear on the product’s label.  

Product of Canada 

Consider Product of Canada like the gold-star, Stanley Cup-tier of Canadian products.  To get to this level, the requirements are a heck of a lot more stringent!  

Here’s what needs to happen for a product to be labelled a Product of Canada:  

1. At least 98 per cent of the total costs of production or manufacturing need to have been incurred in Canada.  
2. A product of Canada must contain all (or nearly all) locally sourced ingredients and components.  
3. Most of the processing and labour involved in making the product must be Canadian.   
4. The last substantial transformation of the product needs to happen in Canada.   

Made in Canada and Product of Canada compared!  

Consider this your handy, quick-reference comparison if you’re ever out and about (and in doubt) about what Made in Canada and Product of Canada mean.  
 

 How can you tell if a company is Canadian? 

One of the single easiest ways to spot a Canadian business out in cyberspace is by looking for a .CA domain!  

Having a .CA is like a beacon of Canadian-ness, and you can shop with the confidence that you’re supporting the local economy, as well as a fellow Canuck business owner!  

Another great way to tell if a company is Canadian is by having a peek at the About us section of their website.  

Now—take a second and think: are there favourite Canadian businesses of yours with a .com instead of a .CA? Consider having a polite chat with them about owning a .CA domain, too.  

Fun fact: you can even look up your favourite brand’s .CA domain to see if it’s been claimed! Use our search tool below:

Buy Canadian, do your part 

Now that you know how to spot a proudly-Canadian made product and business in the wild—you’re ready to help the home team.  

And a fantastic place to get started on your “Buy Canadian” journey is with our .CA Small business gift guide. It’s our ever-growing, curated collection of amazing, one-of-kind Canadian businesses that will help you deliver maximum surprise and delight for any occasion. Plus, you can shop confidently knowing that everything is in CAD, and each business ships across Canada so no need to worry about customs fees! 

Shop everything from foodie-focused eats n’ treats, to trendy threads and fab home décor! You’ve got your Canada-supporting shopping cut out for you in the best possible way!  

But before we go, let’s talk a little more about .CA domains. Our whole mandate here at CIRA is promote all things Canadian and .CA… 

If you’re a Canadian entrepreneur, business owner, lifestyle blogger, folk musician, etc., – why not own your digital identity for real with a .CA? It’s quick, easy and the benefits are many!