Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade, announced that she will lead a group of Canadian business people on a virtual trade mission to France from March 29 to April 1, inclusive, and April 8, with a focus on creating opportunities for businesses to grow and contribute to a sustainable and inclusive economic recovery.
This trade mission will offer Canadian businesses a deep understanding of the French market and opportunities in emerging sectors of sustainable mobility, hydrogen energy, responsible goods and sustainable consumption, and information technology solutions for a green recovery.
Minister Ng will be joined by Isabelle Hudon, Canada's Ambassador to France, for a series of dynamic and interactive sessions that will expand participants' knowledge of France's vibrant green economy and existing avenues for transatlantic trade.
Participation is free, and interested business owners and entrepreneurs have until March 12 to register for 1 of the 2 available streams:
- Exploratory Stream (March 29): Companies will learn how to leverage advantages and opportunities available in France through the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
- Exporter Stream (March 29 to April 1, inclusive, and April 8): Canadian export-ready small and medium-sized enterprises with potential in the French market will hear from experts in their sector; pre-qualified companies will additionally benefit from business connections facilitated by trade commissioners in France.
Quotes
"Canadian companies have what it takes to be global leaders in a sustainable and inclusive recovery from COVID-19. I am excited to help ambitious Canadian businesses explore the avenues for transatlantic trade through this virtual trade mission to France. Together, we will build even more bridges with our friend of long standing and bring incredible Canadian innovation overseas, helping generate sustainable growth and create jobs in the green economy. "
- The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade
Quick facts
-
France is Canada's ninth-largest merchandise trading partner. In 2020, bilateral trade with France totalled $10.2 billion.
-
More than 250 Canadian companies, employing approximately 25,000 people, have representation in France, covering a broad range of economic sectors.
-
In the first 2 full years of CETA being in force (2018 and 2019), bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and France grew by more than 23%.
-
Canada's Trade Commissioner Service helps Canadian businesses sell their products and services abroad by connecting them with its funding and support programs, international opportunities, and its network of trade commissioners in more than 160 cities worldwide.
