Biggest Trade Mission Ever To Boston
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM-Biggest Trade Mission Ever To Boston
The largest trade delegation to ever travel from Nova Scotia to Boston leaves over the weekend to pursue export opportunities with our New England neighbours.
The trade mission and a business expo on Sunday and Monday follow on the heels of the province's recent success in markets south of the border. Thirty-six representatives of Nova Scotia's information technology (IT), telecommunications and aerospace industries will participate.
"We clearly recognize the benefits of sharing opportunities with a friendly partner," said Premier Russell MacLellan. "New England is close, easily accessible, and has a substantial population base. Partnerships with U.S. firms will give our companies the potential for exponential growth. We know we'll continue to see results."
Trade mission participant, Stephen Beamish, of CGI, sees New England as an ideal gateway to the broader U.S. marketplace for the company. "We plan to increase our company's visibility in this strategic market and demonstrate to American businesses the value of having CGI as a trade partner."
Premier MacLellan will address 200 Boston business leaders on the economic opportunities that exist in Nova Scotia for Americans. Officials will be making presentations on the advantages of doing business with Nova Scotians.
"Nova Scotia's new economy companies are making names for themselves around the world. And, they're doing it in sectors that are a priority for the New England marketplace," said the premier. "Our companies have what American businesses need, dedicated and loyal workers, access to educational institutions which foster both entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship, and a favourable exchange rate on the Canadian dollar."
Nova Scotia trade delegates will meet with potential clients, exploring opportunities and creating partnerships. The business expo will give Nova Scotia companies the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise to American firms.
Approximately 70 per cent of Nova Scotia exports are sold to the U.S. About 31 per cent of those exports are destined for New England, making that marketplace Nova Scotia's largest and most important trading partner.
Economic Development & Tourism has led eight trade missions to New England during the past year. These missions generated more than $42 million dollars in sales for the companies which participated and created 625 jobs. Each trade mission generally costs the department less than $10,000, but generates 200 to 300 times that amount in company sales. And, every $100,000 in exports creates another job. In 1996, Nova Scotia's exports grew by a $110,000,000, creating jobs for 1100 Nova Scotians.
Premier MacLellan will also attend the annual tree-lighting ceremony tomorrow in Boston.