Ottawa – A delegation of Canadian and African Union Commission (AUC) representatives met on November 6, 2024, in Toronto, Ontario, to continue discussions that started during the first Canada-AUC Trade Policy Dialogue, in May 2023. During the day-long meeting, Canadian and AUC officials exchanged ideas on important trade policy issues including:
- digital trade
- investment policy
- state-owned enterprises
- the World Trade Organization Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and WTO-dispute settlement reform
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening an open, inclusive and rules-based trade and investment system. Highlights from the Trade Policy Dialogue were shared in a joint statement published by Canada and the AUC.
The Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, and Ambassador Albert Muchanga, AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals, said they were happy with the outcome of the discussions.
In the evening, Minister Ng and Commissioner Muchanga joined the Canadian and AUC delegation for a reception hosted by the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business. It was an opportunity for stakeholders and attendees to connect and build a foundation for mutual economic opportunities.
“A mutually beneficial trade partnership between Canada and the African Union is a good thing for Canadians and Africans alike. Our economies will flourish thanks to ongoing discussions such as this week’s Trade Policy Dialogue. I look forward to strengthening our economic relationship and continuing our engagement with the African Union Commission.” – Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development