January 15, 2019 - Mississauga, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
The Government of Canada's trade diversification strategy seeks to expand market access for Canadian companies, investors and workers through trade deals and programs that unlock opportunities beyond our borders. Enhancing the capability of companies across the country to compete and succeed internationally will lead to more high-quality jobs for middle-class Canadians.
Today, Omar Alghabra, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade Diversification, will speak at the Mississauga Board of Trade about Canada's commitment to free trade with economies around the world, including through the new Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement.
Parliamentary Secretary Alghabra will also meet with Mississauga community and business leaders.
Announced as part of the Fall Economic Statement, Canada's Trade Diversification Strategy proposes new measures to help businesses go global by:
- making the Canadian economy more globally connected by increasing Canada's overseas exports by 50% by 2025;
- providing resources to small and medium-sized enterprises to help them explore new export opportunities;
- enhancing trade services for Canadian exporters; and
- helping Canadian innovators add value, succeed and grow.
"There has never been a better time for Canadian businesses to take advantage of global trading opportunities, — especially those in new and emerging markets and sectors. The access provided by trade deals and support for exporters and prospective exporters will help strengthen and grow the middle class and deliver long-term economic growth that benefits all Canadians."
- Omar Alghabra, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade Diversification
Quick facts
With the Trade Diversification Strategy, the government will invest $1.1 billion over six years to finance infrastructure to support trade, enhance trade services for Canadian exporters and provide Canadian businesses with resources to execute their export plans.
In 2017, top Ontario merchandise exports to the North American market were valued at $200.9 billion.
Canada is now the only G7 country to have free trade agreements concluded with all other G7 nations.
