Highlights importance of open and efficient domestic trade for Canadian businesses and consumers
June 20, 2014 – Regina, Saskatchewan – Industry Canada
Today in Regina, Industry Minister James Moore concluded a successful week of cross-Canada engagement on internal trade. He started the day with a tour of Global Transportation Hub, western Canada's largest greenfield transportation, distribution and supply chain hub. During the tour, the Minister learned about the many challenges in moving goods across western Canada.
The Minister then addressed the Regina and District Chamber of Commerce. He championed Canada as a free-trading nation yet described how progress on trade within Canada has not kept up with the success of our international trade agreements. The Minister reinforced that it should not be easier to trade with our international partners than within our own borders. In particular, he highlighted the Harper Government's plans to work with the provinces and territories in examining a rewrite of the antiquated Agreement on Internal Trade to bring it in line with the current global economic reality.
Minister Moore also met with his Government of Saskatchewan counterpart to discuss ways to revise the AIT to support free trade between provinces. The Minister provided an update on his cross-country discussions and the growing number of Canadian businesses and consumers calling for action on this issue. They also discussed the upcoming meeting of the Committee on Internal Trade, expected in August, and the need to work together to develop a plan for action.
Follow @industrycanada on Twitter and use #internaltrade to let us know how internal trade is affecting your business.
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
media-relations@ic.gc.ca