Canada Trade Mission to Russia

Event Date:

Sunday, June 3, 2012 - 9:00am

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (DFAIT) is organizing a Canada Trade Mission to St. Petersburg and Moscow, (Russia) June 3-8, 2012. The mission will be led by the Minister of International Trade, the Honourable Ed Fast and will focus on Building Products and Construction, Aerospace and Mining sectors.

Russia has been identified by the Canadian Government as a priority market that offers significant potential for Canadian exporters and investors. It has a highly educated population of more than 142 million, with an advanced science and technology capacity, opportunities in many sectors and substantial natural resources that include large natural gas and oil reserves. Canada-Russia bilateral trade relations have expanded rapidly over the last decade – with Canadian merchandise exports increasing from $240 million in 2002 to almost $1.5 billion in 2011, and imports of Russian goods jumping from $380 million to nearly $1.3 billion during the same period.

Russia’s upcoming accession to the World Trade Organization should further increase its integration into global markets and provide better access for Canadian products and services in an improved rules-based, transparent business climate. While providing commercial opportunities for Canadian companies, this market remains challenging, requiring a great deal of dedication to achieve success, and where experience in international, particularly emerging markets, can prove to be a valuable tool.

Participants of previous Canada Trade Missions will be familiar with the tremendous value of such missions in providing networking opportunities, market intelligence and access to key local businesses and government contacts. This is an ideal forum for Canadian firms seeking to gain a better understanding of the Russian industry, identify opportunities and possible local partners and/or expand their activities in Russia.

For more information contact:

Pierre Chalifour
Trade Commissioner
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
Tel.: 613-944-1227 Fax: 613-996-3406
pierre.chalifour@international.gc.ca