International forums such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) provide Canada with an opportunity to advance trade priorities, such as building a resilient and interconnected Asia-Pacific region that advances economic prosperity and supports a sustainable future and equitable future for all.
On May 25 and 26, 2023, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development, attended the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Detroit, Michigan.
The Minister also announced Canada's contribution of $1.2 million to the APEC sub-funds to strengthen small business' ability to engage in the global economy and support regional efforts to combat marine debris.
Minister Ng participated in a session with her counterparts where she encouraged APEC members to support a rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core. She discussed Canada's key priorities for a strong outcome at the WTO's 13th Ministerial Conference, which is scheduled for early 2024.
During a working session on fostering inclusive and sustainable trade within APEC, Minister Ng discussed Canada's efforts to create more opportunities for workers and ensure that everyone benefits from trade. On the margins of the APEC meeting, Minister Ng participated in a discussion about the link between trade, workers and the benefits of innovation.
In a series of bilateral meetings, Minister Ng spoke with Yasutoshi Nishimura, Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, and shared that she will lead the Team Canada Trade Mission to Japan from October 30-November 3. During a meeting with Taiwan they confirmed that in a couple weeks Canadian beef exporters will have full access to the Taiwanese market. The minister also met with her counterparts from Indonesia, New Zealand and Philippines and the Director-General of the WTO, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
Minister Ng also spoke with other ministers representing members of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) where she welcomed Ukraine's application to join the Agreement.
Minister Ng demonstrated Canada's leadership on global issues and advocated for greater regional economic integration, sustainable growth and inclusive trade liberalization that benefits all groups in society.
