Canadian Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, the Honourable Gail Shea, has recently paid a visit to the People’s Republic of China promoting new markets for Canadian fish, seafood and seal products. Minister Shea met with senior officials from China’s State Oceanic Administration, and the Fisheries Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and discussed topics of mutual interest.
Minister Shea opined that her trip signifies government’s strong commitment to Canadian sealers who are involved in a sustainable and humane activity that focuses on full use of the animal. She further said that both the nations agreed to work together towards lifting current restrictions on the import into China of seal products. Upon China’s request Minister Shea also initiated a process to update the existing 1993 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Fisheries and Oceans Canada and China’s State Oceanic Administration. She also secures an agreement to develop a new MOU on fisheries cooperation.
As per Minister Shea this new year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and China. She informed that China is Canada’s second largest trading partner and the world’s largest consumer of fish and seafood, representing great potential for Canadian products.
