The principles of business expansion and export development and their link to profitability are leading to an increasing number of companies looking to broaden their export capacity.

The commitment of this administration to help open doors to national and international markets for local companies has been expressed many times by members of this Honourable House. We see greater export activity as an extremely important factor in helping to strengthen long-term growth of Newfoundland and Labrador's business community and our provincial economy.

In 2009 for example, exports represented close to 40 per cent of the province's Gross Domestic Product and created one in every five jobs.

To help support existing and emerging exporters, the Provincial Government is home to a series of business development programs and services such as the ExportAdvantage Internship Program.

Launched in June, the internship program is providing GFT Aerospace Technologies in Gander, Green Seafoods in Winterton, along with Newfoundland and Labrador Chocolate Company, Orphan Industries, and Tiller Engineering from St. John's — with valuable, dedicated resources that are focused on increasing export activity.

The program is also providing meaningful employment opportunities in the area of international trade for five recent graduates.　

Over a 12-month period, individuals will perform work directly related to the company's export activities such as identifying new market opportunities; conducting research related to market entry; developing export strategies; participating in trade missions; and representing their employer at international trade shows.

Alicia Anderson, an intern at GFT Aerospace Technologies, has stated that "the ExportAdvantage Internship program allows me to work in international business while remaining in Newfoundland and Labrador. As an employee of GFT Aerospace Technologies, I am able to work in international marketing and help identify international expansion opportunities for the company. It is a great experience."

As highlighted by Ms. Anderson, there is much to be gained through engaging youth.　 They have the ability to introduce fresh perspectives, new ideas, and drive growth.

We, as a government, are very excited that this marriage between export development and youth employment can be encouraged and supported through the internship program.

Businesses — whether they are small, medium, or large — should make contact with staff from the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development to learn how our programs such as the ExportAdvantage Internship Program can help them achieve their goals and objectives.