OTTAWA, Canada – Mary Ng, minister of international trade, export promotion, small business and economic development will launch a virtual trade mission to Botswana, Senegal, South Africa, and Côte d’Ivoire scheduled for February 21-24, 2022.
Global Affairs Canada said in a press release that the mission will aim to introduce women-owned and led Canadian businesses to opportunities in the renewable energy, and information and communications technology sectors (ICT).
“The mission also underscores Canada’s continued support of our African partners as they work to implement the historic African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) – key to Africa’s future growth and prosperity. Botswana, Senegal, South Africa, and Côte d’Ivoire are dynamic and growing markets brimming with opportunities for Canadian businesses. Our government is working to deepen our economic ties to strengthen our economies and create more good, sustainable jobs for people in Canada and in African countries. I look forward to continuing to find new ways of working together with our African partners to the benefit of our people,” said minister Ng.
Canada’s commitment to diversifying trade relations has never been more important than it is today. That is why the government of Canada has prioritized the pursuit of free trade and export diversification opportunities, including the development of a strategy for economic cooperation across Africa.
To learn more about the mission and how to participate, we invite all eligible companies to contact Garreth Bloor, president, the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, at garreth@canadaafrica.ca.
“While Canada is an important trading and investment partner with the dynamic economies of Africa, there remain countless opportunities to foster more connections and help businesses grow. These opportunities for new partnerships will also highlight Canada’s leadership on the world stage in innovative technologies,” the statement adds.
Quick facts
- In 2021, Canada announced the intention to develop a strategy for economic cooperation across Africa, which will support the AfCFTA, facilitate global investments and help cement Canada’s role as a trusted partner of African states.
- The Business Council of Canada estimates that exports opportunities in Africa alone could reach USD 6.6 billion in 2030.
- Canada has a well-established trade relationship with Botswana, Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire. In 2020, two-way merchandise trade reached a value of over $850 million.
- As one of Africa’s largest and most diversified economies, South Africa is a prime destination for Canadian goods and services, with the value of two-way merchandise trade totalling $2.2 billion in 2020.
