More Atlantic Canadian manufacturers will soon be able get their shipments to U.S. markets faster by taking advantage of an opportunity to be designated a low-risk importer by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, thanks to an investment of $110,000 made by Canada�s New Government and the four provincial governments in Atlantic Canada.

The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association of New Brunswick will help companies obtain the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) certification through the Canada/Atlantic Provinces Agreement on International Business Development (IBDA).

"Canada�s New Government recognizes that working in partnership with the provincial governments on exporting initiatives brings real results," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). "Our investment of over $110,000 will support Atlantic Canadian businesses in their efforts to obtain the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism certification which enables them to secure a low-risk designation by U.S Customs and Border Protection. This assists companies in getting their shipments to the U.S. market faster."

"Exports are the lifeblood of many Newfoundland and Labrador businesses. Any measure that eases the exporting process while enhancing the safety and security of trade activity is welcome news," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development.

The IBDA is a federal/provincial export development agreement between the Government of Canada (represented by ACOA, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, and Industry Canada) and the four provincial governments in Atlantic Canada.

C-TPAT was launched by the United States in 2001 and is a voluntary government-business initiative that asks businesses to enhance their security practices and guidelines.

"Manufacturing is truly the engine driving our economy," said David Plante, vice president of CME New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island divisions. "Ensuring access to the markets of our largest trading partner is essential to growing our exports and creating real wealth for the region."

Companies interested in learning more about C-TPAT can contact David Plante with CME, New Brunswick at 506-861-9071.

2007 05 15                                       1:15 p.m.