Beijing, China - 8 November 2014
Canada and China have a long history of nuclear energy partnership and cooperation. China represents the largest growth market in the world for both uranium and nuclear technology. It is investing heavily in nuclear power both to meet increasing energy demand and reduce its reliance on coal. In China there are currently 22 nuclear power reactors in operation, 26 nuclear power reactors under construction, and several others being proposed. This includes two CANDU 6 Pressurized Heavy Water reactors in operation at Qinshan, China. Constructed under budget and ahead of schedule, these reactors went into commercial operation in December 2002 and July 2003, respectively.
The Canada-China Expanded Memorandum of Understanding on Nuclear Cooperation underscores our shared commitment to broadening cooperation in a wide range of nuclear activities, including nuclear energy policy, research and development, and resource utilization for civilian purposes.
This enhanced collaboration will facilitate exciting new commercial partnerships and opportunities, both in China and at home, to jointly develop new markets and alternative fuel cycles using CANDU technology and resources such as thorium, which is abundant in China. Projects arising from Canada and China’s collaboration could benefit many members of the CANDU supply chain, which includes approximately 170 Canadian companies.
