Canada ready for more two-way trade (hktdc.com)


Manitoba's Minister of Industry, Economic Development and Mines, Jim Rondeau, says the deep connection and two-way trade links between Manitoba and Hong Kong should be further strengthened

The Canadian state of Manitoba has strong historical links with Hong Kong which must be further enhanced and strengthened with two-way trade, according to the Minister of Industry, Economic Development and Mines, Jim Rondeau.

On a recent visit to Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland to promote better trade links, Mr Rondeau discussed investment and partnership opportunities between Manitoba, Hong Kong and the mainland. He was speaking in a webcast interview with the Trade Development Council.

"Manitoba and Hong Kong have deep connections and historical links. We have local firms source from Hong Kong and from Hong Kong into China. We have started well but we want to enhance these links.

"We see Hong Kong companies in Manitoba, (and) we want to make sure we keep them there and further strengthen links with two-way trade and increase value-added," Mr Rondeau said.

Film industry ripe with opportunity

Areas which might benefit from the two way trade include film, graphic arts and animation industries. "Manitoba's film and graphic arts and animation industries have grown exponentially in the past few years. It's an area where Manitoba and Hong Kong can share and grow. In value added, we export these services heavily to the US," he continued.

Manitoba companies have taken part in past Hong Kong fairs and exhibitions such as the Information Communication and Telecommunication (ICT) Fair and FILMART. Attendance at these fairs is beginning to bear fruit.

Other areas of co-operation include life sciences, agriculture and mining. "Mining is a big part of our economy. Manitoba provides US$1.1-$1.3 billion worth of minerals like copper, gold, diamonds and titanium each year. I see a huge demand from the Chinese economy for these minerals and I see huge opportunities for sources of investment and joint ventures in these areas," Mr Rondeau added.

He said that he sees opportunities for mainland companies to locate in Manitoba taking advantage of Manitoba's huge open market into the US. "There are huge opportunities for Chinese companies to locate in a useful province with good regulation and rule, consistent roads and a steady positive environment to do business and get an opportunity to expand into North America."