That Guy From China

I hate to say it…but it seems that an awful lot of Canadians just don’t have balls any more.  American, Australian, and European companies are aggressively pursuing the Chinese market, but Canadians are almost invisible.  At a recent industrial trade show in Shanghai that had over 2000 international exhibitors, not one single Canadian company was present.

It can’t be because the culture is too different…Americans, Australians, and Europeans are doing fine.  It can’t be the distance…we are closer in Vancouver than the vast majority of American companies who are in China.  It can’t be that we don’t have anything to offer…we’re one of the most advanced countries on the planet, with huge natural resources and a thriving technological sector.

In fact, the only possible excuse that I can come up with is that Canadians are simply too complacent.  They rely primarily on the Canadian and American markets, and just can’t be bothered to go any further than that.

Of course, now that the financial crisis has crippled the U.S. economy, and Canadian companies who relied on that market for their profits are facing serious problems, perhaps it will inspire them to get off their butts, and actually be a little adventurous.

Don’t get me wrong…I’m proud of being Canadian.  I’m proud of my country, and everything it stands for.  Which is why I am so embarassed and dismayed by this Canadian apathy.  We could be a major world player.  We’ve got the people, the tools, the talent, and the resources.

All we lack is the drive and determination.

Perhaps the current economic situation will shake people out of their apathy, and get them thinking more internationally.  I sure hope so.  We have so much to offer, and so much that we could do.  Its a shame to see it all squandered.