Helping businesses find innovative ways to diversify trade and expand into growth markets is key to a sustainable, inclusive economic recovery and transition to a green economy.
This week, Minister Ng concluded visits to Thailand and Singapore that advanced progress toward strengthening Canada's trade relationships in the Indo-Pacific-a region crucial to Canada's trade diversification strategy-by building partnerships and creating more opportunities for Canadian businesses to export their innovative products and services.
In Thailand, on the margins of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting, Minister Ng announced that Canada has submitted a formal request to launch negotiations for Canada's accession to the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA). Joining DEPA would further secure Canada's position at the forefront of the global digital economy and boost Canadian innovation.
In Singapore, the Minister also announced Canada's intention to launch a design study exploring the establishment of a Canadian trade gateway in Southeast Asia. This study will assess how Canada can enhance its presence in the region and leverage Singapore's dynamic market and connectivity as a gateway to all Southeast Asia.
