Minister announces call for nominations for export awards

Industry, Trade and Rural Development Minister Judy Foote today announced a call for nominations for the 2003 Newfoundland and Labrador Export Awards. Three finalists will be selected and recognized, and one named as Newfoundland and Labrador Exporter of the Year at the Newfoundland and Labrador Export Awards luncheon to be held in St. John�s on May 29.

"The Newfoundland and Labrador Exporter of the Year Award will be presented to the nominee that best exemplifies the province�s top exporter," said Minister Foote. "The awards luncheon is an opportunity recognize the exporter of the year and to showcase several exporting companies that are making their mark around the world."

Eligible companies must be registered in Newfoundland and Labrador, be privately owned and/or fully incorporated, have been exporting goods or services for three years or more, and did not receive a Newfoundland and Labrador Export Award in 2002. Previous recipients of the award include Garrison Guitars, Rodrigues Winery and Lotek Wireless Inc.

Applications will be evaluated for several criteria including: product, location and number of export markets, export sales and growth. The winner will be selected by a committee including representatives from the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters - Newfoundland and Labrador Division, the Department of Industry, Trade and Rural Development, Industry Canada and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

"In 2002, our province�s exports totaled $9.7 billion, up from $7.7 billion in 2001," said Minister Foote. "Government recognizes the importance of supporting trade and export development initiatives as a means to creating new jobs and diversifying the economy of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Newfoundland and Labrador Export Awards recognizes the important role that exporters play in our province."

Beginning May 3, advertisements will appear in newspapers and on radio across the province calling for nominations for the Newfoundland and Labrador Export Awards. For more information call John King at (709) 729-1796.

Media contact: Tansy Mundon, Communications, (709) 729-4570.

2003 05 02                                       9:35 a.m.