Minister Ng discusses economic recovery through modernized free trade agreement at Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference

November 21, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Canada’s support for Ukraine is unwavering. The Government of Canada is committed to the people of Ukraine and the country’s economic recovery and reconstruction in the face of Russia’s military aggression, which has displaced millions and killed thousands of Ukrainians, disrupted the worldwide economy and worsened global problems such as food and energy security.

Today, the Honourable Mary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, reaffirmed Canada’s ongoing support of Ukraine as she joined Taras Kachka, Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine and Trade Representative of Ukraine, in a discussion at the 2023 Rebuild Ukraine Business Conference in Toronto. The conference brought together policymakers, industry experts, businesspeople and representatives of non-profit agencies to discuss opportunities for Canadian and Ukrainian businesses to enhance collaboration and grow their trade ties, and thereby contribute to rebuilding Ukraine.

During her meeting with Yulia Svyrydenko, Ukraine’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Minister Ng highlighted how the modernized Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) will offer a comprehensive framework for supporting bilateral trade with and investment in Ukraine. The agreement will underpin Canada-Ukraine commercial ties during Ukraine’s reconstruction and beyond and better position entrepreneurs and enterprises to do business together—whether exporting goods or services, making investments or creating other commercial partnerships.

New and updated chapters in the modernized agreement include commitments on services, investment, temporary entry for businesspersons, digital trade, inclusive trade, labour and environment.