Find Canadian Buyers, Importers, Distributors (2025 List)

With over 38 million individuals and a voracious demand for varied products, the Canadian marketplace continues to open doors for global suppliers. Canada imported over CAD 700 billion worth of goods in 2022 alone, and food and beverages accounted for a huge portion of that amount. That speaks volumes about how significant international sourcing is in this country.

What is most notable about Canadian buyers is their diversity. Some target broad distribution to supermarkets, while others concentrate on ethnic foodstores or upscale niche areas.

The policies of the country are also beneficial. With deals such as USMCA and CETA, it's simpler to get suppliers into Canada than it is to many other areas. The rules are clear-cut, the procedure is transparent, and food safety standards are respected. Stability for many manufacturers makes that stability reassuring.

It's what else that makes the marketplace different as well. It's the multicultural demand. In short, Canada is a multicultural country so the demand for international tastes and specialty products never stops. Whether exotic fruits, specialty drinks, or new protein sources, Canadian food buyers are always sourcing to keep up with changing tastes. So an authentic list of Canada buyers can help you find opportunities faster and find the right partners who will grow with you.

Canada’s food and beverage imports reflect its diverse consumer base and growing demand for international products. In 2022, food and beverage imports accounted for a significant portion of the country’s total imports, with key categories including:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables (e.g., bananas, avocados, and citrus fruits)
• Seafood and fish (e.g., shrimp, salmon, and tuna)
• Specialty beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, and wine)
• Dairy products (e.g., cheese and butter)
• Processed foods and snacks
• Plant-based and organic products

Fast-growing segments include:

• Organic and non-GMO foods
• Functional beverages (e.g., kombucha, energy drinks)
• Vegan and plant-based alternatives
• Ethnic and specialty foods

These trends highlight the increasing consumer focus on health, sustainability, and unique culinary experiences.

If you’re trying to build connections, it really helps to know who’s who.

Here are the main types of buyers in Canada:

• Importers – These are the companies that bring goods straight into the country. Canada importers usually care most about reliability—steady supply, good prices, and no headaches with customs.
• Distributors – Consider them the middleman. They will take your product from A to B, whether that’s a small store or a national chain. They like strong branding, shelf ready packaging, and a supply chain that won’t break.
• Retail Chains – Supermarkets, health food stores, and convenience chains all belong here. They're discerning because their shelves are competitive real estate. They want items that are different, whether organic, premium, or something completely new.
• Foodservice Providers (HORECA) – Hotels, restaurants, and catering outlets are continuously looking for something that not only tastes wonderful but is also pleasing to the eye and safe. Sometimes they even request special pack sizes to suit their kitchens. Many food buyers in Canada fall into this category.
• Online Marketplaces – E-commerce has expanded like crazy. Sites now enable international brands to reach Canadian consumers straight away. For some wholesale customers in Canada, online channels are becoming as crucial as physical shelves.

Exporting to Canada involves several key steps. Here’s a practical guide for manufacturers:

• Research the Canadian market – Before anything else, figure out if your product even fits. What’s trending? Who’s buying? Are food buyers in Canada looking for what you’re selling?
• Know the regulations – Canada has strong food safety and labeling regulations. The CFIA dictates the rules, and Canada importers will hold you to the knowledge of them before they even accept your shipment. If you don't meet compliance, your shipment most likely won't make it through customs.
• Sort your paperwork – Honestly, paperwork makes or breaks an export deal. You’ll need the basics like a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and certificates of origin. If you’re dealing with food, add quality or health certifications to the stack.
• Choose the proper shipping partner – Don't choose the lowest cost option. Choose someone who's actually dealt with wholesale buyers in Canada previously. A good freight forwarder can do you a world of good and save you a lot of time and headaches when clearing customs.
• Verify tariffs and duties – Trade agreements such as USMCA or CETA will, at times, reduce costs. It's good to know whether your product is eligible because, essentially, a slight tariff adjustment can either make or break your price.
• Establish relationships with buyers – This is the underestimated segment. Yes, you can ship goods, but success in the long term lies in trust. Go to trade shows, connect online, and contact Canada importers and distributors directly.

Certifications are crucial for exporting food and beverage products to Canada, as they ensure compliance with regulatory standards and build trust with buyers.

Key certifications include:

• CFIA compliance – This is non-negotiable. If you’re selling food, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency sets the rules. Canada importers won’t even look at your product if it doesn’t meet CFIA standards.
• Organic certification – If you’re aiming at health-conscious shoppers, this is key. Canada follows the Canada Organic Regime (COR), and food buyers in Canada take this seriously.
• GFSI-approved schemes – Think BRC, SQF, or IFS. They are important if you're working with processed foods. They tell wholesale buyers in Canada that your facilities are safe and consistent.
• ISO certifications – ISO 22000 (food safety) and ISO 9001 (quality) aren't always necessary, but they make you appear much more credible to Canada importers and distributors.
• Halal and Kosher certifications – Canada has a large multicultural market. If your product can meet these requirements, you’re opening doors to big consumer groups.
• Non-GMO certification – This one’s not mandatory, but apparently, demand is climbing fast. A lot of Canadian consumers now check labels closely, and food buyers in Canada are paying attention.

Packaging and labeling play a critical role in the Canadian market, as they influence consumer purchasing decisions and ensure regulatory compliance.

Popular packaging styles typically fit into a couple of distinct categories:

• Retail-ready packaging – Grocery stores and specialty retailers are fond of this because it's easy to stack, easy to find, and essentially saves time on the shelf.
• Bulk packaging – Consider the foodservice providers, distributors, and wholesalers. They need larger quantities that reduce handling costs.
• Eco-friendly packaging – Canadians apparently care a lot about the environment. Recyclable, biodegradable, or reusable materials are no longer "nice to have" — they're expected.

Labeling is where regulations really begin. Canada importers won't even look at your products unless the fundamentals are addressed:

• Product name and brand prominently displayed
• Entire list of ingredients
• Net weight or volume (metric only)
• Country of origin labeled clearly
• Nutrition facts in both English and French
• Easy-to-read allergen warnings
• Best-before or expiration date
• CFIA compliance markings, where necessary