NEWS RELEASES
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA CONTRIBUTES $3.4 MILLION TO TRADE ASSOCIATIONS TO INCREASE CANADIAN EXPORTS
May 2, 2003 (3:35 p.m. EDT) No. 48
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA CONTRIBUTES $3.4 MILLION TO TRADE ASSOCIATIONS TO
INCREASE CANADIAN EXPORTS
International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew today announced a contribution of $3.4 million by the Government
of Canada to 57 trade and industry associations to encourage the firms they represent to export their products
and services abroad.
"Exports are the spearhead of Canada's economy," said Mr. Pettigrew. "One job in every four depends on the
success of our exports in global markets. That is why government programs of this type, supporting the
Canadian international trade development strategy, are so important."
This government assistance is being granted under the Assistance to Trade Associations component of the
Program for Export Market Development, to enable non-profit national trade or industry organizations to
promote the products and services of small and medium-sized businesses in international markets. The focus
will be on businesses preparing to export for the first time or interested in penetrating a new market.
During 2001-2002, the program was thoroughly reorganized to enhance its effectiveness and to solidify
partnerships between the government and trade or industry associations.
For more information on the Program for Export Market Development for trade associations, visit the
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Web site at: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/pemd/tradeassociations/assistNews-en.asp
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For further information, media representatives may contact:
Sébastien Théberge
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister for International Trade
(613) 992-7332
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca
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