Conference on reindustrialization and exports to the United States: New export prospects for Quebec companies

MONTREAL, March 20, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - "A stronger industrial fabric in the United States also means new business prospects for our exporting companies, with our geographic proximity: our SMEs need to seize opportunities associated with reindustrialization and adapt to the diversification of the American market," said Françoise Bertrand, president and CEO of the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec (FCCQ) speaking during the Réindustrialisation et exportations aux États-Unis conference today. This event, of vital interest to exporting firms, was presented by the FCCQ as part of its activities associated with the Trade Corridors and welcomed the Reshoring Initiative's founder, Harry Moser, to Quebec for the first time.

Speaking before more than 200 people on Wednesday, March 19, at HEC Montréal, and Thursday, March 20, at the Centre communautaire et culturel Thérèse de Blainville, Mr. Moser presented the growing phenomenon of reshoring, the repatriation of manufacturing to the United States. This trend, which is making a significant contribution to the reindustrialization and economic recovery in the US, also represents strong investment potential for our exporting SMEs, due to our geographic proximity.

Presented in collaboration with Laurentides International and Deloitte, today's event brought together business people who listened as several high-profile speakers shared their vision and expertise, including Andrew C. Parker, Consul general of the United States in Montreal.

"The export sector is especially sensitive to the international economic climate and has yet to pick up following the last recession. Its recovery also depends on the ability of our SMEs to meet the needs of large companies south of the border," added Ms. Bertrand.

At both events, Louis Duhamel, strategic advisor at Deloitte, presented the findings of a study commissioned by the FCCQ on the phenomenon of reindustrialization and shed light on the opportunities available to Quebec companies and the associated threats. As well, Yan Cimon, associate professor with the department of management at Université Laval, gave an overview of economic trends in the United States in 2014.

"The Quebec economy is open to the world, and that's why it is crucial for Quebec companies to be informed of opportunities in the US export sector. The overall aim of the Trade Corridors is to create stronger, more dynamic and more prosperous business communities," concluded Ms. Bertrand.

About the Trade Corridors
The Trade Corridors arose out of a desire to develop trade relations between Quebec and the northeastern United States. The FCCQ, in collaboration with the Quebec government, established this initiative with the aim of supporting Quebec exporters and encouraging fluid transborder trade.

About the FCCQ
With its broad network of more than 150 chambers of commerce and 1,200 Quebec companies, the FCCQ represents more than 60,000 businesses and 150,000 business people involved in all sectors of the economy throughout Quebec. As the largest network of business people and businesses in Quebec, the FCCQ strongly supports its members' interests in matters of public policy, thus promoting an innovative and competitive business environment. 

SOURCE: Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec

For further information:

Camilla Sironi
Communications advisor
FCCQ
514-844-9571 ext. 3227
Cell: 514-647-4745
[e-mail]