1. Domestic businesses are becoming rarer because globalization, lower trade barriers, and digital technology make cross-border production and sales easier and cheaper. Consumer demand for global products and cost advantages abroad also push firms to operate internationally.
2. Importing goods, exporting goods, using foreign suppliers or outsourcing, operating facilities in other countries, and employing international workers or management.
3. United States is Canada’s largest trading partner, with deep integration through agreements like NAFTA/USMCA, especially in autos and energy. China became a major partner in the 21st century, with Canada exporting resources and importing manufactured goods. Mexico expanded trade with Canada mainly after NAFTA, particularly in agriculture, autos, and manufacturing.
4. Exporters sell domestically made goods abroad (e.g., a Canadian lumber exporter); Importers buy foreign goods to sell at home (e.g., electronics retailers). Multinational corporations operate in many countries (e.g., Toyota); Franchises replicate a business model internationally (e.g., McDonald’s). Strategic alliances and joint ventures share resources across borders (e.g., airline partnerships); Licensing and contract manufacturing allow foreign production without ownership (e.g., apparel brands); Digital global firms sell online worldwide without physical presence (e.g., Shopify-based sellers).