Diversifying markets: International Trade Minister to visit British Columbia, Canada’s gateway to the fast-growing markets in the Asia-Pacific
News Release
August 25, 2017 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Canadians benefit from expanded trade and investment with large, fast-growing markets, including China, because it is such a dynamic driver of middle-class growth and economic activity. British Columbia is the gateway to the Asia-Pacific and presents significant opportunities for Canadian businesses wanting to expand into this vast market.
From August 27 to 29, 2017, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade, will be in Vancouver and Prince Rupert to meet with business leaders and key influencers on Canada’s progressive trade agenda. Together with Parliamentary Secretary Pamela Goldsmith-Jones, the Minister will hold meetings and round-table discussions across a range of issues, including how best to maximize Canadian business opportunities and exports into the Asia-Pacific region.
In Vancouver, Minister Champagne will deliver a keynote address at a BC Chamber of Commerce event on the opportunities for British Columbians and Western Canadians. He will then travel to Prince Rupert for the opening of the Fairview Container Terminal expansion, and to meet with provincial government counterparts and local business community representatives who are actively pursuing export opportunities.
Quotes
“Diversifying and expanding our trade and investment creates well-paying middle-class jobs for Canadians and opens the doors to markets for Canadian businesses in the Asia-Pacific region. As a Pacific nation, there has never been a better time for Canada to diversify our trade and investment with high-growth markets in the Asia-Pacific region. British Columbia is a gateway to the Asia-Pacific and has been leading the way in expanding trade with this region, from information and communication technologies to softwood lumber.
- François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of International Trade
Quick Facts
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In 2016, British Columbia’s merchandise trade with the world was valued at $88.8 billion, comprising $40.0 billion in exports and $48.8 billion in imports from the world.
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China is now B.C.’s second-largest trading partner, receiving 15.6% of B.C. exports, compared to 2.3% in 2001.
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