North America is one of the continents located in the Western Hemisphere and has various definitions depending on geographic, cultural, and political perspectives. According to the United Nations definition, “North America” refers to the region that includes the United States, Canada, and Bermuda (a classification determined more for statistical and data organization purposes than strictly geographical positioning). North America boasts one of the largest and most diverse economies in the world, shaped by its geographical, historical, and cultural background.
Here, we introduce the “North American Business Database,” which includes the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Mexico is incorporated due to its participation in trade agreements such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and its successor, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
North American Business Database
COUNTRY/REGION |
United States, Canada, Mexico |
DATA TYPE |
Business database |
INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION |
SIC（Standard Industrial Classification）、Infobel Industry Classification |
UNIVERSE |
Approx. 73,600,000 |
UPDATE FREQUENCY |
Monthly |
DATA ELEMENT |
Basic Pack: company name, trade name, postal address, name decision makers, phone number, fax number, mail address, website, web domain, activity, language, registration number, legal form, sales, employee size, marketability, legal status, import, export, family members, year started Corporate Linkages Pack: corporate linkages Historical Data Pack: sales, employee size, year started, family members Publishing Pack: directory name, website address, web social media links, publishing strength, opening hours Executives Pack: up to 11 positions of executives, full name, first name, gender, language Geography Pack: up to 11 positions of executives, full name, first name, gender, language *Basic Pack is mandatory for all additional pack deliveries. |
LANGUAGE |
ENGLISH |
Industries and Economy of North America
North America is an economic zone comprising the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Each country has unique economic characteristics and industrial foundations, yet the region collectively wields significant influence on the global economy. This article explores the key industries and economic features of each country, their economic interdependence, and the importance of utilizing the “North American Business Database” for business opportunities in the region.
United States: Economic Powerhouse and Innovation Hub
Industrial Structure
The United States is the world’s largest economy, with a GDP of approximately $28 trillion as of 2024, serving as the core of North America’s economy. Its industries are highly diverse, with notable sectors including:
Technology Sector
- Silicon Valley is home to tech giants such as Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Meta.
- The U.S. leads in artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology.
Energy Industry
- The shale oil and gas revolution has made the U.S. the world’s largest producer of oil and natural gas.
- With innovations in hydraulic fracturing, daily production reached approximately 12 million barrels in 2023, securing energy independence and boosting exports.
Manufacturing
- The automotive industry thrives in Detroit, led by companies such as Ford, General Motors, and Tesla.
- The aerospace sector is driven by market leaders like Boeing and SpaceX.
Agriculture
- The U.S. is the largest exporter of agricultural products, focusing on corn, soybeans, and wheat.
- Precision agriculture has significantly improved efficiency.
International Trade and Economic Features
The United States plays a central role in the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), fostering close trade relationships with Canada and Mexico. Particularly in the automotive sector, integrated supply chains are a vital component of regional economic interdependence.
Canada：A Resource-Rich and Stable Economy
Industrial Structure
Canada, a developed country with abundant natural resources and advanced technology, operates an export-driven economy.
Energy Industry
- Canada holds the world’s third-largest oil reserves (approximately 170 billion barrels), with Alberta’s oil sands as a major source.
- Over 60% of its electricity comes from renewable energy, reflecting a commitment to environmentally conscious policies.
Manufacturing
- The automotive industry is concentrated in Ontario, collaborating closely with U.S. automakers.
- The aerospace sector features globally competitive firms like Bombardier.
Agriculture
- Canada is a leading exporter of wheat, canola, and dairy products, known for high food safety standards.
Mexico：A Hub for Manufacturing and Trade
Industrial Structure
Mexico leverages its cost-effective labor force and geographical advantage to drive an export-oriented economy, with manufacturing at its core.
Utilization of the Maquiladora System
- The maquiladora system allows foreign companies to establish manufacturing and assembly plants in Mexico for efficient production of goods for the U.S. market.
- Major outputs include auto parts, electronics, and medical devices, with growing aerospace industry participation.
Agriculture
- Mexico exports large quantities of avocados, tomatoes, and berries to the U.S. market.
- Organic and sustainable farming practices are increasingly adopted.
Energy
The oil and gas sector remains vital, alongside rapid developments in renewable energy.
Economic Interdependence in North America
North America is characterized by close trade ties supported by the USMCA. For example, the automotive industry operates an integrated supply chain where engine components are designed in the U.S., processed in Canada, and assembled in Mexico.
Economic Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite its strengths, North America’s economy faces challenges, including:
- Climate Change Mitigation: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy.
- Income Inequality: Disparities between the U.S. and Mexico and within each country.
- Trade Friction: Occasional disputes over tariffs and labor standards among the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
By advancing technological innovation, energy transformation, and sustainable development, North America is expected to maintain its position as a leading global economic region. Deeper regional collaboration will unlock further growth opportunities.
Leveraging the North American Business Database
To understand North America’s economy and expand business with regional companies, access to a reliable business database is essential. The “North American Business Database” serves as a vital resource for identifying opportunities and fostering partnerships across industries.