Canada Bolsters Trade Engagement in Indo-Pacific, Targeting Expansion of Seafood Exports
Canada is focusing on the Indo-Pacific region as a pivotal area for broadening its global trade, particularly in seafood exports. In a significant development on 21 February, Lawrence MacAulay, Canada's Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, inaugurated the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) in Manila, the Philippines. MacAulay described this step as marking "a new era in Canada's involvement in the region.
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Canada's focus on expanding its international trade, particularly in seafood exports, has taken a significant step with the inauguration of the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) in Manila, the Philippines. Lawrence MacAulay, Canada's Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, emphasized the pivotal role this office will play in advancing export markets for Canadian farmers and fostering collaboration within the region.
During his ongoing two-week trip to Malaysia and the Philippines, Minister MacAulay reiterated the importance of the Indo-Pacific region as a key market for Canadian products. The appointment of Diedrah Kelly as the IPAAO's executive director, along with substantial funding totaling CAD 31.8 million, underscores Canada's commitment to enhancing trade and economic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.
Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, and Economic Development Mary Ng emphasized Canada's dedication to bolstering trade ties with Indo-Pacific economies through the IPAAO initiative. Supported by key stakeholders such as the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance and the Fisheries Council of Canada, the IPAAO aims to facilitate trade engagement and expand opportunities for Canadian businesses.
With Canadian fish and seafood exports to the Indo-Pacific reaching CAD 2 billion in 2023, Minister MacAulay highlighted the immense potential for further growth in this sector. The IPAAO's strategic approach, focusing on regional partnerships and leveraging Canada's expertise in food safety and sustainability, is poised to enhance export opportunities and address common challenges.
As the Indo-Pacific region continues to drive global economic activity, Canada's engagement is vital for long-term growth and prosperity. With established trade agreements like the Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, Canada is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in this dynamic region.