Minister Fast is accompanying Prime Minister Harper on a visit to China from February 7 to 11 to meet with the Chinese president and Chinese premier, and to promote trade relations between our two countries.

Minister Fast consults with business leaders on upcoming budget and discusses key elements of Government’s pro-trade plan for jobs and growth during an event in Toronto.

Minister Fast highlights Canada as a top investment destination with investors.

Investment by German multinational demonstrates Canada’s world-leading economic fundamentals are attracting job-creating investors.

Minister Fast signed an extension to the Canada-U.S Softwood Lumber Agreement, which will benefit lumber workers and their families by bringing much-needed stability and predictability to the lumber industry.

Canadian cattle, sheep and goat producers will benefit from new access to the Philippine market. Free and open trade is the best way to create jobs and prosperity for Canadians, said Minister Fast.

Canadian beef under 30 months of age can re-enter the South Korean market. This is the result of Canada's efforts to help farmers and producers access global markets.

"Our government is committed to standing up for Canadian interests by ensuring taxes are low and trade is open and free," says Minister Fast.

Minister Fast welcomed the successful conclusion of negotiations in Geneva to modernize the WTO's Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) and expand its market access opportunities for the 15 parties to the agreement.

Canada helps to lead efforts that result in anti-protectionist pledge adopted by 23 members of the World Trade Organization.

Canada has reached a new agreement on an export certificate for live cattle with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This announcement will help Canada’s overall efforts to build on its economic and trade ties with the Gulf Cooperation Council region as a whole.