Harper Government highlights ways the Asia-Pacific Gateway is helping increase Canadian exports to fast-growing Asian markets

VANCOUVER, June 24, 2013 /CNW/ - Wai Young, Member of Parliament for Vancouver South and Co-Chair of the Canada-China Legislative Association, on behalf of the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, is undertaking a series of Asia-Pacific Gateway promotional events and meeting with key stakeholders that benefit from this key export facilitation initiative.

Over the next few days, MP Young will meet with key transportation and industry leaders on how the Asia-Pacific Gateway is building on Canada's competitive advantages, to further increase Canada's exports and investment ties throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

"Our government's top priority has been, and continues to be, the economy and the creation of jobs, economic growth and long term prosperity for Canadians," said MP Young. "We believe that expanding and diversifying our trade relationships around the world is one of the best ways to achieve these goals. That is why I am discussing with Canadian business, industry and other leaders how our government can continue to support them, and help them to maximize the many opportunities that exist throughout the fast-growing Asia-Pacific region."

On behalf of Minister Fast, MP Young will see first-hand how strategic investments and partnerships via Canada's Asia-Pacific Gateway are helping exporters reach the fast-growing Asia-Pacific market, with visits to:

• Vancouver International Airport;
• Port Metro Vancouver;
• Asia-Pacific Foundation in Vancouver;
• International Ship-Owners Alliance in Vancouver;
• CN in Squamish;
• BC Wood and Mining Association of British Columbia in Squamish;
• Seaspan in Vancouver;
• Prince Rupert Port Authority; and
• Fairview and Ridley Port Terminals in Prince Rupert.

"With one in five Canadian jobs generated by exports, our government understands that deepening our trade relationships with the largest, most dynamic and fastest-growing markets in the world is vital to the long-term prosperity of workers and families," said Minister Fast. "That is why we are pursuing the most ambitious trade expansion plan in Canada's history and why we will continue to build on the competitive advantages that have made our country the gateway of choice between Asia and North America."

The Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI) aims to make Canada's Asia-Pacific Gateway the best transportation network for global supply chains between North America and Asia. To date, the Government of Canada has invested in APGCI infrastructure projects valued at approximately $3.5 billion, with federal investments of $1.4 billion, in partnership with all four western provinces, municipalities and the private sector.

In 2012, Canada's bilateral trade with China reached record levels, with merchandise exports alone growing 15 percent to $19.3 billion. China has now surpassed the United Kingdom to become Canada's second-largest export destination, after the United States.

More information on Canada's Asia-Pacific Gateway can be found at www.asiapacificgateway.gc.ca/ 

SOURCE: Government of Canada

For further information:

Rudy Husny
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Ed Fast
Minister of International Trade and
Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway
613-992-7332

Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055

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