NAICS was developed by the statistical agencies of Canada, Mexico, and the United States to provide common definitions of the industries within the three countries and a common statistical framework for analyzing statistical data relating to industry and the economy. 

Described by Statistics Canada as "a comprehensive system encompassing all economic acitivities", NAICS has a hierarchial structure, dividing the economy into 20 sectors at its highest level.

NAICS replaces the old Canadian Standard Industrial Classification system (known as SIC). Mexico, the United States, and Canada adopted NAICS in 1996.

As a business owner, knowing the NAICS number of your industry and related industry sectors makes research for business plans, marketing plans, or economic forecasting easier.

Also Known As: North American Industry Classification System.

Examples: The NAICS number of the Retail Trade industry is 44.

Alternate Spellings: None.

Common Misspellings: None.

Related Resources:

Researching The Industry Section Of The Business Plan
Where to find the information you need to write the Industry section of the business plan, with links to online sources of information.

Canadian Statistics
Sources of Canadian statistics relating to business and Canada's economy and Canadian surveys relating to business issues.

Business Information For Non-Residents
Information for non-Canadians and foreign companies who want to do business in Canada, or for non-Canadians who want to immigrate to Canada and start their own businesses.

Elsewhere on the Web:

North American Industry Classification System
The NAICS online from Statistics Canada. Find your industry listed on the menu or search for it.

Introduction To The NAICS
An explanation of the development of the NAICS and how it works from Statistics Canada.