Export Seminar for Pictou County Businesses

Pictou County business operators will get an intensive look at exporting at a seminar in New Glasgow this week called Project Trade Express.

The seminar will help participants to identify promising export markets and provide practical advice on getting their products to market.

"A number of Pictou County businesses are already very successful exporters," said Gordon Balser, Nova Scotia's Minister of Economic Development. "But there are lots of other companies in the area that could be doing business with the world. We've organized this event to help more companies get ready for global trade."

The sessions will involve presentations from trade experts on assessing markets and transportation. A number of successful Pictou County exporters will also be available to share their experiences.

"This workshop will be useful to seasoned exporters and to people who are completely new to exporting," said New Glasgow Economic Development officer Lynn Coffin. "Everyone will leave with key information to help them identify and crack their own hot markets."

The day-long event is being organized by the Department of Economic Development and the Pictou Regional Development Commission.

"Exporting is a key pillar in our strategy for creating more wealth in our community," said Brent MacQuarrie of the development commission. "This event will provide a major impetus in helping us achieve that goal."

Nova Scotia exports grew by 8.2 per cent last year, almost twice the increase of the previous two years combined and well ahead of the national average of 5.1 per cent.

"We need this growth trend to continue," added Mr. Balser. "We'll be scheduling similar events in other areas of the province in the coming months. And, with any luck, we'll see some of the seminar participants joining us on trade missions."

Project Trade Express starts at 9 a.m. on Sept. 22 at the Pictou County Business Service Centre, 980 East River Rd. To register, call Marjorie Cameron at 902-752-9352.