Media Release
Colorado Association of Commerce & Industry and Ontario Chamber of Commerce Call for Continued Free Trade
March 21, 2018(Denver and Toronto, March 21, 2018) – The Colorado Association of Commerce & Industry (CACI) and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) are advocating together in support of the renewal of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), recognizing the importance of trade between Ontario and Colorado.
The interdependent nature of trade in North America and mutual benefits from cross-border trade partnerships are key drivers for a renewed NAFTA. Trade between Colorado and Ontario remains strong with $1.4 billion dollars at risk in key sectors such as furniture, bread, wood, beef, pork and water.
“As the Colorado Chamber of Commerce, CACI urges our Congressional delegation to support the adoption and implementation of a modernized NAFTA to facilitate robust trade between Colorado businesses and our Canadian neighbors,” said CACI President Chuck Berry. He added that Canada is Colorado’s #1 foreign trading partner, representing $4.1 billion annually, mostly in agriculture, energy, equipment and machinery and minerals. Studies show that just last year, 141,200 Colorado jobs relied on trade with Canada.
CACI and OCC would like to see governments to continue to work collaboratively together on NAFTA and cross-border partnerships, ensuring a renewed agreement that is beneficial for both economies.
“Free trade provides economic benefits and strong cross-border relationships for both Ontario and Colorado. Our Chamber Network supports a modernized NAFTA that still protects millions of jobs in an integrated supply chain,” said Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “The OCC will be working collaboratively with the Colorado Association of Commerce & Industry, our Chamber Network, and Premier Wynne for a renewed agreement that is positive for business and ensures competitiveness for both our economies.”
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For more information please contact:
Dan Pilcher
Executive Vice President
The Colorado Association of Commerce & Industry (CACI)
(303) 748-1115
Jessica Georgakopoulos
Director of Communications
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
647-243-3556
jessicageorgakopoulos@occ.ca