Canada to Begin Consultations on Free Trade ...
9 January 2001
Canada to Begin Consultations on Free Trade Agreement with Four Central American Countries
The government will begin public consultations on a free trade agreement with El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, International Trade Minister Pierre Pettigrew announced today.
The government will seek input from the Canadian public, businesses, and citizen-based organizations, as well as the provinces and territories during the initial consultation process. Canadian and Central American officials are scheduled to meet at the end of February.
In 1999, Canada exported goods worth $212 million to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua and imported goods worth about $251 million. There is significant potential for Canadian companies in several priority export sectors, including telecommunications equipment, environmental equipment and services, foodstuffs, automotive parts, and construction materials.
Free trade negotiations with Central America signal Canada's continued engagement in the region, and will provide momentum to the negotiation of the FTAA.
Prime Minister Chretien and the presidents of the four countries agreed to pursue a free trade agreement last September at the Canada-Central America Summit.
Members needing more information on consultations on the Canada-Central America Four free trade negotiations may wish to visit the DFAIT web site:
http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/tna-nac/ca4-e.asp