Minister Day Launches Infrastructure Trade Mission to Russia

(Minister of International Trade)

The Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of International Trade and Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway, arrived in Russia today with a trade mission composed of 33 Canadian companies representing various facets of Canada’s infrastructure sector.

Minister Day’s trade mission kicks off with a tour of Novie Veshki, a Canadian-built housing complex and one of the largest subdivisions in Moscow. This development is the first in Russia to mirror Canadian building codes, making it a good example of how Canadian expertise can be applied – with great success – in this country.

“The Novie Veshki project is moving forward with the direct involvement of Canadian engineers and architects. It represents the first housing project in Russia to adopt building codes that mirror Canada’s strict regulations,” explained Minister Day. “I was impressed to note that this new housing complex looks just like the ones we see in Canada. In fact, looking around, it feels like I haven’t left Canada!”

The trade mission will stop in Moscow and Sochi, where Minister Day will also meet with representatives of Canadian companies already doing business in Russia, including infrastructure development for the Sochi 2014 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

“Canadian companies have proven to be world-class competitors. They have a lot to offer, particularly expertise in construction and infrastructure development,” said Minister Day. “I am here in Russia this week to promote what Canada has to offer and to help Canadian businesses build bridges to the Russian marketplace.”

The Russian Federation is an emerging market and remains a key destination for Canadian companies specializing in technology, agriculture and infrastructure. Canada’s exports to Russia grew by 30% in 2008 and have increased almost sevenfold since 2000.

More details about Minister Day’s trade visit to Russia can be found here.