While national headlines may focus on the broader U.S.-Canada relationship, Georgia’s connection with Canada is distinct, deep-rooted, and thriving. Years ago, a U.S. Consul General in Toronto referred to Canadians as “Georgians of the North”—a sentiment that still holds true today.

But this bond goes beyond goodwill and friendliness. It is a partnership built on business, education, culture, and economic growth—one that directly impacts thousands of Georgians every day.

A Powerful Economic Connection

Georgia’s economic ties with Canada are undeniable, as outlined by the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) in 2023 and Canadian government data:

• Exports: Canada is Georgia’s number one export destination with $7.8 billion in goods, leading the nation in exports of bulldozers, carpets, and poultry and over $1.5 billion worth of services.

• Imports: The state imported $6 billion worth of goods from Canada, including turbojets, specialized polymers, and sawn wood. A majority of which goes directly into the state’s manufacturing, making Georgia competitive on global markets.

• Investment: At least 87 Georgia-based companies operate in Canada, while 460 Canadian businesses have operations in Georgia, employing more than 45,000 Georgians.

Beyond these impressive trade figures, local communities and chambers of commerce—including those in Cobb, Gwinnett, Savannah, and Peachtree Corners—actively foster business relationships with Canada. These connections continue to drive investment, trade, and job creation on both sides of our shared border.

As such it is not surprising that Georgia’s own Chick-fil-A chose Canada as its first international markets in 2018.  And that Iconic Canadian franchise Tim Hortons, the coffee and bakery franchise, plans to open 30 stores across the Peach State by 2027.

A Partnership That Moves Beyond Trade

Georgia and Canada’s relationship extends well beyond goods and services.

• Logistics & Connectivity: Georgia enjoys multiple daily direct flights between Atlanta and at least six Canadian cities, along with direct flights from Savannah. Additionally, container ship service from the Port of Savannah connects to three Canadian ports, strengthening the supply chain.

• Collaboration & Innovation: Georgia played a pivotal role in founding the Southeastern United States-Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) alliance, an annual forum—now in its 18th year—that promotes bilateral trade, technology, and scientific cooperation.

• Government Presence: Georgia has maintained an official trade and economic presence in Canada since 1981. Likewise, Canada’s Southeastern Consulate is based in Atlanta, and the Quebec Government office, established in 1978, continues to foster engagement in Georgia.

Education, Culture, and Tourism

Our partnership isn’t just about business—it’s about people.

• Academic Exchange: Universities and research institutions in both regions collaborate on education and workforce development, offering students and academic leaders invaluable opportunities to exchange ideas based on our shared cultures.

• Tourism & Culture: Canada remains Georgia’s #1 international tourism market, with Canadian visitors spending over $83 million in the state last year alone. Atlantans also regularly enjoy performances from Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil, one of many Canadian cultural treasures embraced by Georgia audiences. And Celine Dion wowed the world at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics Opening Ceremony singing the official anthem of the Games—well before her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

A Bond That Endures

The relationship between Georgia and Canada is not shaped by political fluctuations or policy debates in Washington—it is built on decades of meaningful collaboration, mutual investment, and a shared vision for the future.

Georgia and Canada share a special relationship, based on our mutually cherished values and nearly 250 of shared history and culture.  This powerful and lasting partnership is one that continues to create jobs, drive innovation, and enrich lives.

As we move forward, let’s not only recognize but celebrate and nourish the strong and unwavering bond between Georgia and Canada—because we’re more than friends. We’re family.

Ambassador Louise Blais is the former Canadian Consul General who was based in Atlanta

Chris Clark is the President & CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and former Deputy Commissioner of the GDEcD

Craig Lesser is the chair of the Pendleton Group, and former Commissioner of the GDEcD. He is also the recipient of the Medal of the Governor General of Canada

This piece was originally published in Global Atlanta