NEWS RELEASES
CANADA'S TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICIES GET TOP MARKS FROM WTO
December 15, 2000 (10:15 a.m. EST) No. 271
CANADA'S TRADE AND INVESTMENT POLICIES GET TOP MARKS
FROM WTO
Canada's liberal and transparent trade and investment policies have been key factors
in its continued strong economic growth, according to a report by the World Trade
Organization (WTO).
"As a trade oriented and globally integrated economy, Canada benefits significantly
from an open and rules-based world trading system," said International Trade Minister
Pierre Pettigrew. "We will continue to pursue reductions in trade and investment
barriers through multilateral, regional, and bilateral initiatives."
The WTO report was prepared for Canada's sixth Trade Policy Review. It emphasized
that Canada's liberal trade regime has enabled trade and investment flows to expand
rapidly, playing an important role in Canada's ability to reduce its debt, increase
employment and after-tax incomes, and raise living standards. Canada's goods and
services exports now account for 43 percent of its GDP, up from 26 percent in 1989.
The past nine consecutive years of economic growth have been accompanied by
substantial job gains for Canadians.
"Canada will work towards a world trade system that is fair and beneficial for all," said
Mr. Pettigrew. "But we will ensure Canadian culture and social values can continue to
flourish in this system."
The Minister also emphasized the Government of Canada will continue to consult
Canadians as it seeks to secure markets for Canadian products and services, provide
better access to lower cost goods and services, and promote a level playing field for
Canadian business.
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For additional information on the results of Canada's review visit the Department of
Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Web site at http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/tna-nac/wto-e.asp#mechanism
You may also contact:
Sylvie Bussières
Office of the Minister for International Trade
(613) 992-7332
Media Relations Office
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
(613) 995-1874
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