The Manitoba government is hosting roundtable discussions with representatives from European Union (EU) member states to raise awareness of trade and investment opportunities in Manitoba under the Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
“We are pleased to welcome representatives from seven different European Union countries to work together to build stronger partnerships and promote trade growth,” said Growth, Enterprise and Trade Minister Blaine Pedersen. “The Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement provides Manitoba industries with tremendous opportunities to export, as well as investment opportunities for EU-based companies in Manitoba.”
Over the next two days, discussions with the EU delegation will include industry representatives and focus on key sectors of the economy, including agriculture, advanced manufacturing and northern economic development. The delegation will also visit two of Manitoba’s cutting-edge research and innovation centres, the Composites Innovation Centre and the Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals.
In 2017, Manitoba’s total trade with the EU totalled $1.9 billion, making the EU the fourth-largest export destination for Manitoba goods and the second-largest source of imports. It is estimated that, once fully implemented, CETA could increase Manitoba’s exports of goods and services to EU member states by 24 per cent or $200 million per year.
Pederson noted the Manitoba government partnered with Global Affairs Canada to host two export business forums featuring presentations on CETA and market opportunities in the EU, with 30 participants in Brandon and 85 in Winnipeg earlier this week.
Source : Steinbachonline