Canada, Western Cape forge stronger economic ties

CANADA has signalled a strong commitment to boosting investment and deepening economic ties with the Western Cape.

- WENDY DONDOLO

This follows a high-level meeting held in Cape Town between Canada's Minister of Finance, François-Philippe Champagne, and Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism, Ivan Meyer.

"The door is open to the Western Cape for Canada to boost investment," was the key message emerging from the meeting, as both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade, tourism, and bilateral investment between the province and the North American nation.

Meyer highlighted the importance of the Western Cape's role in South Africa's trade with Canada.

"In 2023, South Africa's exports to Canada were valued at R8.28 billion" he said.

"Citrus fruit, both fresh and dried, was the leading export category, accounting for R1.69bn or 20.42% of the total export value."