Minister to lead delegation to Cuba

At the invitation of the Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Trade and Technology Minister Judy Foote will lead a delegation of Newfoundland and Labrador businesses and organizations to the Havana International Trade Fair on November first.

"According to the Chamber of Commerce, their previous experience indicates that there are business opportunities in Cuba which they want to pursue and this show provides an excellent venue to seek out those opportunities," said Minister Foote. "Newfoundland and Labrador companies and organizations have the potential to make important contacts on this mission, and start the process of developing strong business relationships with Cuban companies. As well, they will have the opportunity to follow up on contacts made during their participation in the Havana International Trade Fair which they attended last year."

This is the 16th annual fair and this year, in addition to members of the Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce, five other companies and organizations will attend. They are Design Management Group, Memorial University, Newfoundland Styro, NewTel Enterprises, and Terra Nova Trade.

The Havana International Trade Fair runs from November 1-8. Last year, approximately 1,900 firms from 50 countries participated in the fair. This year, the five major exhibitors are Canada, Germany, Italy, Mexico and Spain. There will be a Canadian pavilion with 50 businesses, and provinces, being represented. The Havana International Trade Fair is the largest trade fair held in Cuba, and it is also one of the largest in the world.

"Developing this trade relationship does, however, take time and effort. I commend the Gander and Area Chamber of Commerce for the initiative they have taken in pursuing this relationship with Cuba and, given the historic ties between Gander and Cuba, we have reason to believe they will be successful in their efforts. The Department of Industry, Trade and Technology will work with them as they look to maximize the opportunities they have identified and continue to identify," added Minister Foote.

While in Cuba, Minister Foote will be meeting with the Canadian Ambassador, Keith Christie, and Cuban Ministers of Investment and Cooperation, Foreign Trade and Fisheries.

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