First-ever Canada Pavilion at Fruit Logistica

This year marks the first year that Canada will have its very own Pavilion at Fruit Logistica. “It is the first time the country will have a sizeable presence with three provinces participating,” says Richie Santosdiaz, Trade Specialist – Europe for the Government of British Columbia (B.C.), Canada. The participating provinces are British Columbia, Quebec and Prince Edward Island; the Embassy of Canada in Germany is the fourth pavilion partner. Around 20 Canadian companies will be exhibiting at Fruit Logistica this year. 

According to Santosdiaz, Fruit Logistica is becoming an important trade show for Canada. “It is a global event and although generally the majority of Canada’s exports go to the US, Asia and Europe are also important export markets. Fruit Logistica is not a German nor European show, it is global, so a great opportunity to keep up relationships from around the world because they are all here for the show." 

Europe is an important market for Canada. The importance of the European market will increase once the recently signed Free Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union (CETA) becomes effective at the end of this year. On the day that CETA enters into force, 98 percent of EU tariff lines will be duty-free for Canadian goods, and an additional one percent will be eliminated over a seven-year phase out period. Likewise, EU companies will share similar new competitive advantages when exporting to Canada.

With its ideal climate for blueberries and cherries and its geographic location, B.C. is a gateway to Asia for Canada. Important export markets for the province include China, Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, as well as other regions like the Middle East. In addition to B.C., the province of Quebec is a significant producer of cranberries, vegetables and potatoes. The province’s French influence has resulted in high production standards and high food quality. Opposite to Quebec’s versatility when it comes to fresh produce, Prince Edward Island has one primary industry, which is potato farming. Over 88,000 acres of potatoes are grown on PEI each year, making it the largest commercial crop grown on the island.

In addition to its first-ever Pavilion and a Free Trade Agreement with the EU, Canada has more to celebrate this year. It’s the country’s 150th anniversary, which will be celebrated on Canada Day, July 1st. 

If you want to learn more about Canada’s high quality produce items, come and visit the Canada Pavilion in Hall 23, A-11.

For more information:

Richie Santosdiaz

Tel: +44 (0) 7879800353