April 14, 2009 (8:00 a.m. EDT)
No. 100

Minister Day Launches New Trade Offices in China to Help Canadian Business

The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, today launched new Canadian trade offices in Chengdu and Shenzhen, China. These will help Canadian companies gain access to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

“Expanding trade opportunities for Canadians is a top priority for our government. These cities present some of the greatest prospects in China,” said Minister Day. “Expected to open on July 1, the two offices will further strengthen Canada’s commercial footprint and expand the business connections that are so critical to trade in China.”

An additional four Canadian trade offices—in Nanjing, Qingdao, Shenyang and Wuhan—are expected to open before the end of the year. Together, these six cities are home to almost 50 million people.

“A great number of opportunities exist for Canadian companies in sectors such as construction, agriculture, machinery and equipment, and technology,” said Minister Day. “These new offices will be central points of contact for Canadian firms and our Chinese business partners seeking to establish new links with everything Canada has to offer.”

The launch of the new trade offices was applauded by Canadian companies.

“Strategically, the new trade office will take advantage of the Chinese government’s economic stimulus efforts specifically devoted to the city of Chengdu,” said Dr. David Jiang, CEO of Micro-DSP Technology. “As one of the first Canadian investment projects in this region, we will benefit from the additional market intelligence and expert advice provided by a Canadian trade office.”

The offices are being established in partnership with the Canadian Commercial Corporation, a Crown corporation that falls under the International Trade portfolio.

Canada already has a trade presence in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Chongqing. In 2008, Canadian merchandise exports to China totalled $10.4 billion, up 9.1 percent from the previous year. Merchandise imports from China totalled $42.6 billion, up 11.3 percent .

For further information, consult the following website:Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada - International Trade: Minister Day visits Japan and China

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For further information, and high-resolution pictures of Minister Day’s visit to Japan and China, media representatives may contact:

Mélisa Leclerc
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-6186

Trade Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-996-2000