This release was issued under a previous government.

Alberta businesses exported $7.86 billion worth of goods through the Port of Vancouver in 2015, including more than $2.9 billion to China and $1.37 billion to Japan.

“Alberta exports to China increased 16 per cent last year and our businesses have room to continue growing. The Port of Vancouver is Alberta’s best connection to Asia. We are a trade province and making it easier for our businesses to export their products around the world creates jobs and diversifies our economy here at home.”

Deron Bilous, Minister of Economic Development and Trade

The Government of Alberta and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to identify how they can continue to collaborate to improve market access for Alberta products through the port and on to world markets.

The minister said the MOU complements a suite of new supports for Alberta exporters announced under the Alberta Export Expansion Program, including:

  • The Export Support Fund, providing eligible Alberta companies with up to $20,000 to ease the costs of exporting to new international markets.
  • The Global Buyers and Investors Program, helping export-ready companies connect with international investors by bringing business delegations to the province.
  • The Export Readiness Program, helping familiarize Alberta businesses with the ins and outs of exporting and improving their readiness for the export market.

“Trade through Port of Vancouver is growing as demand for Canadian exports and Asian imports increases. To accommodate this anticipated growth, it is critical we collaborate with key stakeholders in our western provinces to meet Canada’s ambitious trade agenda. We're pleased to partner with the Government of Alberta to work to improve market access for Alberta products through the Port of Vancouver and on to world markets.”

Robin Silvester, President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority

Quick facts

  • The Port of Vancouver is Alberta’s largest marine export point in Canada.
  • Cargo through the Port of Vancouver represents 20 per cent of Canada’s goods traded by value and generates 100,000 direct and indirect jobs across Canada.
  • The Port of Vancouver facilitates trade with more than 170 world economies. It handled 138 million tons of cargo in 2015, valued at $184 billion.