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SURREY – The Province of British Columbia is committed to establishing a presence in India to help B.C. companies do business there, Economic Development Minister Colin Hansen announced today.
“The strong potential for co-operation in research and development, joint technology development and pharmaceutical research make India an exciting partner,” Hansen said. “A B.C. presence in the market will facilitate these kinds of collaborations and partnerships, and promote British Columbia as a globally competitive business location.”
B.C. currently has international representation in the China, Japan, the United States and Europe.
“We see the Asia-Pacific region as key to British Columbia’s long-term prosperity,” Hansen said. “B.C.’s goal to connect with the region is expected to provide as much as $77 billion in increased trade and 255,000 new jobs by 2020.”
Hansen said various locations are currently being examined, including Bangalore, known for its advanced technology and research and development, and Mumbai, a major financial and business hub.
The India Market Advisory Group of the Asia Pacific Trade Council recommended in its final report last year the B.C. government open an office in India. The government will seek input from universities and businesses before committing to a specific location.
“This was one of the key recommendations of our report,” said India Market Advisory Group chair Arun Garg. “A B.C. presence in India will definitely enhance trade and investment between the province and India. This is long overdue.”
The initiative is part of the Province’s long-term strategy to increase and diversify its economic and cultural ties with the Asia-Pacific.
For more information, please see www.asiapacifictradecouncil.com.
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Communications Manager 250 356-9428 |
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