Minister MacAulay leads Canadian Delegation at the China International Import Expo
News release
November 6, 2018 – Shanghai, China – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Canada and China have a longstanding partnership and our commercial relations continue to grow. Canada is diversifying into fast-growing Asian markets to open up new opportunities for a wide range of Canadian businesses, which is an important part of creating new jobs and economic growth that will further strengthen Canada's middle class.
Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, is currently in Shanghai participating in the International Import Expo (CIIE) which runs from November 5-10, 2018. Participating in the expo represents the importance that Canada places on expanding our trade relationship with China. The expo will showcase the high-quality products and services that Canada has to offer and will provide Canadian businesses from across various sectors with new opportunities to grow and expand.
Minister MacAulay witnessed important signing ceremonies between Canadian companies and Chinese companies, worth an industry-estimated $620 million Canadian dollars. Agreements signed represent the growing diversity of Canada's trade and investment relationship with China, as deals were signed in sectors ranging from agri-food to aerospace to life sciences and transportation.
Canada was designated as one of twelve countries of honour at the CIIE. The Canadian National Pavilion includes federal, provincial and territorial partners, and Canadian businesses. Apart from the National Pavilion, dozens of Canadian companies will participate in the Business Exhibition.
"Canada is a trading nation that is focused on growing trade relationships, including diversifying into new and rapidly growing markets like China. I am proud to participate in the Expo to build upon current friendships, as well as establish new friendships with government counterparts and business partners in China. These relationships will help to expand opportunities for Canadian businesses, including exporters, farmers and processors."
- The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
"This expo provides an excellent platform to promote Canada's world-class products and services to buyers in the lucrative Chinese market. By joining large-scale events like the CIIE, we are creating opportunities for our exporters and other businesses looking to break into new and fast-growing markets in Asia. Canada continues to work with China on initiatives that provide meaningful access for more Canadian producers, entrepreneurs and companies of all sizes."
- The Honourable Jim Carr, Minister of International Trade Diversification
Quick facts
China is Canada's second-largest single-country merchandise trading partner.
In 2017, two-way merchandise trade between the countries reached nearly $94.5 billion in value, accounting for 8.4% of Canada's total merchandise trade.
Approximately 50 Canadian exhibitors are part of the Canadian Pavilion at CIIE.
The 2017 agricultural trade mission to China generated over $300 million in new sales – blueberries, barley, ice wine and swine genetics.
