A New Chapter in Arizona-Canada Relations: Canadian Trade Office to Open in Phoenix
In a move set to enhance the economic ties between Arizona and Canada, a new Canadian trade office will soon open in Phoenix. Announced by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs and Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng, this development marks a significant step in fostering bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
The announcement was made in the presence of Zaib Shaikh, the Consul General of Canada in Los Angeles, along with Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, and Glenn Williamson, CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council. The event also saw participation from various government, industry, and community leaders.
Governor Hobbs emphasized the importance of the new office, stating, The new trade office represents a significant step forward in the Arizona – Canada partnership.
She added that it will serve as a hub for promoting trade and investment, thereby fostering economic growth and cross-border collaboration.
Echoing this sentiment, Sandra Watson remarked, We’re excited this new Canadian trade office will be based in Arizona.
She noted that the office will highlight Arizona’s position as a global business epicenter, building on the existing strong relationship with Canada.
Over the past five years, from 2018 to 2023, Canadian companies have shown considerable interest in Arizona, initiating at least 20 foreign direct investment projects. These ventures have brought in $1.59 billion in capital investment and are projected to create 2,677 new jobs.
Significant Canadian business presence in Arizona includes XNRGY, which has recently begun construction on a $300 million manufacturing facility and U.S. headquarters in Mesa, promising over 900 jobs. Li-Cycle is another key player, having launched a battery recycling facility in Gilbert in 2022.
The trade relationship between Arizona and Canada is robust, with total trade reaching over $5.3 billion in 2023. Arizona’s exports to Canada amounted to $2.7 billion, making it the state’s second-largest export market, while imports from Canada totaled $2.6 billion.
Media Contact
Alyssa Tufts, Arizona Commerce Authority, [email protected]
About the Arizona Commerce Authority
The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) stands as the state’s leading economic development organization, committed to enhancing Arizona’s economy through a strategic focus on attracting out-of-state companies, supporting business expansion within Arizona, and fostering new entrepreneurial ventures in key industries. For more information, visit azcommerce.com and follow the ACA on Twitter @azcommerce.
Read More Here
