Trade Mission to France Planned

The Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Nova Scotia (ADIANS) is leading a trade mission to France from Monday, July 12 to Friday, July 16. The objective is to expand commercial opportunities for Nova Scotia's $500-million aerospace industry.

Justice Minister Michael Baker will lend support to the mission, on behalf of Economic Development Minister Ernest Fage, underscoring the province's commitment to this growing industry and its goal of export expansion.

Among the participants is EADS Composites Atlantic, which will strive to attract more European business by capitalizing on the plans of Airbus to have a greater presence in North America.
The Halifax International Airport Authority will also present its business case to Air France. The airport is hoping Air France will consider joining the 30 other carriers who now visit the Halifax International Airport.

"More than 5,200 Nova Scotians are employed in our industry, which is more than double the number employed in 1996," said Mike Hollihan, ADIANS president. "Our members expect to do about $500 million in business this year -- and our intention is to keep that number growing. Trade missions like this one help us to do exactly that."

Additional participants include IMP Aerospace Group, which provides products and services to both the domestic and international commercial and military markets. Turbo Wing Development Canada will market its turbo wing technology, which produces optimal aerodynamics through a rotor-wing combination. Hollihan & Associates, and Oban Business Development (International) Ltd. round out Nova Scotia's business representatives. Nova Scotia Business Inc., the Office of Economic Development and the National Research Council of Canada are also represented.

"The aerospace and defence industry is part of our advanced manufacturing sector and a strategic growth area for our province," said Mr. Baker. "We face an increasingly competitive market and we are proving that we have the skills, technology and expertise to be a major player in this sector. I'm proud to support the companies that are taking their message to this vital market."

The mission is also supported by representatives from Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. This regional approach to economic development is in keeping with the agreement discussed at the most recent meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers.