Introduction

With its trade-oriented and globally integrated economy, Canada benefits from an open, transparent and rules-based international trading system at the multilateral, regional and bilateral levels. FTAs help level the playing field for Canada vis-à-vis competitors that have agreements with markets of interest and also help to secure Canadian investments. They offer enhanced market access for a broad range of Canadian goods and services, and they encourage Canadian businesses to expand into foreign markets and boost living standards by creating jobs in Canada.

As outlined in the Global Commerce Strategy, and as supported by our deepened engagement in the Americas, Canada has reinvigorated its regional and bilateral free trade agreement agenda. An aggressive regional and bilateral agenda signals to our trading partners that protectionism is not the right approach in times of economic uncertainty. Rather, it emphasizes that we should pursue expanded opportunities for our businesses and citizens.

In addition to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA, which entered into force on January 1, 1994), Canada has implemented FTAs with Israel (January 1, 1997), Chile (July 5, 1997) and Costa Rica (November 1, 2002). As we move forward, Canada will continue to look for ways to create new market opportunities that will make the Canadian economy stronger and more successful within the rapidly changing global economy.