Hot Markets

New and upcoming trade agreements are creating demand for B.C. exporters

EUROPEAN UNION

The EU is already B.C.'S fifth-largest export destination. Once the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU comes into effect (provisional application starts on September 21), tariffs on almost all of B.C.'S exports will be progressively eliminated. CETA also includes provisions that ease regulatory barriers, reinforce intellectual property rights and ensure more transparent rules for market access. Here are a few B.C. exports expected to flourish: • Forestry and wood products–tariffs as

high as 10 per cent will be cut • Fish and seafood–tariffs as high as 25 per

cent will be cut • Agriculture and agri-food–almost 94 per cent of EU Canadian product lines will be duty-free • Clean technology– CETA removes all tariffs on cleantech products. B.C. companies will also benefit from improved labour mobility provisions and expanded access to EU government procurement opportunities

SOUTH KOREA

The Canada-korea Free Trade Agreement (CKFTA) took effect in early 2015. Eventually, tariffs will be eliminated for: • Halibut, prawns, sablefish and salmon–

from a current rate of 20 per cent or more • Blueberries, cherries and cranberries–

from a current rate of up to 45 per cent • Wine–from a current rate of 15 per cent

OTHER PROVINCES

The Canada Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), which went live on July 1, will reduce obstacles to the free movement of people, goods, services and investment between provinces • Dental hygienists, insurance adjusters, welders and plumbers–provisions allow occupational certifications to be recognized across the country ■