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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
CANADA  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 12 AND 14 JUNE 2019  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 19 July 2019 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
CANADA  
PROJET DE COMPTE REN DU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 12 ET 14 JUIN 2019  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 19 juillet 2019  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
CANADÁ  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 12 Y 14 DE JUNIO DE 2 019 
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 19 de julio de 2019  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaracio nes. 
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
CANADA  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEET ING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Manuel A.J. Teehankee (Philippines)  
CONTENTS  
 
1   INTRODUCTORY REM ARKS BY THE CHAIRPER SON ................................ ......................  3 
2   OPENING STATEMEN T BY THE REPRESENTAT IVE OF CANADA  ................................ ..... 5 
3   STATEMENT BY THE  DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ...............  9 
4   STATEMENTS BY ME MBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  11 
5   REPLIES BY THE R EPRESENTATIVE OF CAN ADA AND ADDITIONAL C OMMENTS  ........  58 
6   CONCLUDING REMAR KS BY THE CHAIRPERSO N ................................ ........................  66 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Canada are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/389/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The eleventh Trade Policy Review of Canada was held on 12 and 14 June 2019. The 
Chairperson, H.E.  Mr. Manuel Teehankee (Philippines), welcomed the delegation of Canada, headed 
by Ms. Kendal Hembroff, Director General , Trade Negotiations, Global Affairs Canada; 
H.E. Ambassador Stephen Cornelius De Boer, Permanent Representative of Canada to the WTO; the 
rest of the delegation; and the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador  Juan Carlos Gonzalez (Colombia).  
1.2.  The Chairperson called M embers' attention to the presence of the participants of the Advanced 
Trade Policy Course in French, who were very interested in attending this review meeting.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of trade policy reviews and the main elements of 
procedures  for the meeting. The report by Canada was contained in document WT/TPR/G/389 and 
that of the WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/389.  
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Switzerland; Chinese Taipei; Norwa y; Mexico; European Union; United States; Chile; Iceland; 
Colombia; Australia; Russian Federation; Hong Kong, China; New Zealand; Ukraine; Japan; Brazil; 
India; and Thailand. The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline: 
Indones ia; China; Argentina; Dominican Republic; Ecuador; Philippines; Singapore; Republic of 
Korea; and Turkey.  
1.5.  At the last Review in 2015, Canada had been commended for its open and transparent trade 
and investment regimes, with very few obstacles for its tradi ng partners. Members had 
acknowledged Canada's leadership in the WTO in both the regular work and in the negotiation 
process, and its support to LDCs and small and vulnerable economies. Members had also welcomed 
Canada's tariff liberalization and simplific ation efforts, its commitment to accept and implement the 
TFA expeditiously, and the trade facilitating measures undertaken autonomously. Members had 
identified a number of areas where they thought improvement was possible.  
1.6.  It was noted, for example, that  Canada's exports relied heavily on one market and a narrow 
product base. Regarding Canada's unique system of government, Members had inquired if there 
were plans to revise Canada's Agreement Governing Internal Trade (AIT) to ensure compliance with 
its int ernational obligations. Other areas noted were the possibility of improvement in Canada's 
alcoholic beverage distribution and tax regime; the increasing use of trade remedies; and high tariff 
protection for some agricultural products. The continued use of export restrictions in certain sectors 
had been questioned, as was the process of pharmaceutical patent approvals. It was to be very 
interesting to hear from Canada what developments had taken place since the last Review with 
respect to these issues.  
1.7.  As the Secretariat and the Government reports note, during the current review period, the 
Canadian economy was characterized by moderate GDP growth, low inflation, and a relatively stable 
federal government debt -to-GDP ratio. Canada's economy remained open and  competitive, with the 
sum of exports and imports of goods equivalent to over two -thirds of GDP. Canada achieved a high 
standard of living, with GDP per capita of around USD 45,000.  
1.8.  Since its last Review in 2015, Canada's trade became more diversified, as exports of minerals 
and fuels lost some share of the total, while those of machinery and transport equipment gained. 
Although trade became slightly more diversified geographically, Canada was still largely reliant on 
its main trading partner. To promote th e diversification of trade, Canada recently launched a new 
Export Diversification Strategy to increase exports by 50% by 2025. Canada also took steps towards 
a more progressive and inclusive trade policy, by promoting gender equality, and adopting measures  
to foster the participation of women, SMEs, and Indigenous peoples in trade.  
1.9.  A major development during the review period was the replacement, in 2017, of the Agreement 
Governing Internal Trade (AIT) by the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, which has a broa der scope 
and further aligns Canada's internal trade with its external regime, including with commitments 
made under new FTAs.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  1.10.   Canada continues to be a strong supporter of the WTO and the multilateral trading system, 
and has been at the forefront of effort s on WTO reform. It is the leader of the Ottawa group, with a 
view to identifying ideas to enhance and improve the functioning of the WTO.  
1.11.   Canada continued to pursue FTAs as a means of trade liberalization and, during the review 
period, three new agreement s entered into force or were being provisionally applied, with the 
European Union (CETA), Ukraine (CUFTA), and the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific 
Partnership (CPTPP) partners. Canada also signed the agreement revising the NAFTA, referred to in  
Canada as the Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).  
1.12.   Canada's investment regime remained largely stable, with few substantial changes to the 
Investment Canada Act. However, the investment review threshold was raised, transparency was 
enhanced for  national security reviews, and foreign ownership limits in the airline sector were raised 
from 25% to 49%.  
1.13.   Canada undertook a number of measures to facilitate trade, including using streamlined 
border processes through various programmes and stepping up t he use of the Single Window 
Initiative.  
1.14.   Canada's average MFN applied tariff was 6.1% in 2019, compared with 6% in 2014. The 
average rate continued to be higher for agricultural goods, at 21.8%, while for non -agricultural 
goods, it stood at 2.5%. Slightly o ver 73% of tariff lines were duty -free.  
1.15.   Canada continues to be an active user of anti -dumping (AD) and countervailing (CV) 
measures. During the review period, there was an increase in the number of investigations initiated 
and in the number of measures ap plied. Canada introduced new legislation to implement "anti -
circumvention" of AD and CV investigations, as well as new Scope Proceedings.  
1.16.   Canada remains one of the key players in the international trade of agricultural products. 
Tariff protection in the s ector remained high for certain products, and a tariff rate quota regime is 
applied to regulate market access; imports of these products require licences. The dairy sector is 
regulated through a supply management system that includes a production quota reg ime as well as 
price and imports controls. A new five -year policy framework, the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, 
was put in place in 2018 to provide support for investment in the sector.  
1.17.   With respect to services, the reports note that Canada's financial  sector is solid and well -
regulated. For the purpose of keeping the sector sound and up -to-date, statutes are subject to 
sunset reviews every five years. In telecommunications, Canada embarked on a review of the three 
main laws in 2018 with a view to provi ding final recommendations by 2020. Canada's domestic and 
regional maritime transport system remains highly reliant on Canadian vessels and services, in part 
due to the limitation set in Canada's Coasting Trade Act, although there was some liberalization w ith 
respect to repositioning empty containers.  
1.18.   For this Trade Policy Review, Canada was very pleased to have received over 500 advance 
written questions. Other main areas of great interest to Members included: initiatives to facilitate 
trade; tariffs; nati onal treatment in the application of excise duties; trade remedies, including 
procedures and number of investigations, steel safeguards, standards and SPS measures; Crown 
corporations; objectives and preferences in government procurement; and changes in in tellectual 
property legislation, entry into force of IP treaties, and IP enforcement procedures.  
1.19.   The Chairperson was sure that these topics, and others, would be touched upon in greater 
detail at the deliberations on Wednesday and Friday.  
1.20.   The Chairperson  closed his introductory remarks by wishing Canada a very successful 
eleventh Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE OF CANADA ( MS. KENDAL HEMBROFF)  
2.1.  Monsieur le Président, je suis très heureuse d'être ici pour représenter le Canada à notre 11ème 
Examen des politiques commerciales de l'OMC. Le Canada remercie tous ceux qui ont pris part à cet 
important processus.  
2.2.  Le Canada remercie également chaleureusement l'Ambassadeur Juan Carlos Gonzalez, 
Représentant Permanent de la Colombie, que  nous avons l'honneur d'avoir comme commentateur. 
Et nous remercions tous les Représentants Permanents et les délégués qui participent ici aujourd'hui.  
2.3.  I would like to acknowledge the WTO Secretariat for its hard work in producing a very thorough 
and detailed Secretariat Report. Consistent with past reviews, we appreciated the opportunity for 
frank and productive discussion with your dedicated team throug hout this important trade policy 
review process.  
2.4.  Trade drives Canada's economy. While Canada represents just 0.5% of the world's population, 
we account for 2.4% of global trade in goods and services. One in six Canadian jobs is linked directly 
to exports.   
2.5.  Spurred by an international trade policy framework that prioritizes trade diversification and 
inclusion, two -way trade in goods and services accounts for almost 66% of Canada's GDP.  
2.6.  Canada is proud of the role that it has played in helping to build a mu ltilateral trading system 
that is based on the rule of law and has resulted in the creation of freer and more open trade.  
2.7.  At the time of Canada's last Trade Policy Review in 2015, the financial crisis and ensuing global 
downturn, including the decline in t he price of important commodities such as oil, dampened 
Canada's economic prospects.  
2.8.  Canada made a choice at that time to re -invest in its people and in innovative practices that 
included improved skills -training for workers, increased infrastructure spen ding, and fostering 
science and research. Canada has also continued to pursue open and liberal markets through 
comprehensive free trade agreements, support for the rules -based trading system at the WTO, and 
various types of unilateral liberalization measur es.  
2.9.  Despite the global rise of protectionism and growing trade tensions, which have added 
uncertainty to the global economic environment, Canada continues to voice support for the 
rules-based multilateral trading system, seek new trading partners, and rem ains committed to 
helping its businesses take advantage of opportunities in new markets abroad.  
Support for the multilateral trading system  
2.10.   The WTO constitutes a critical part of Canada's international trade policy engagement. As 
Canadians, we believe stro nger trade deepens trust and friendship between countries and shrinks 
the distance between us.  
2.11.   That is why Canada's Minister of International Trade Diversification has convened a small 
group of 12 other diverse, but like -minded, Members to discuss pragmat ic and realistic ideas to 
modernize and strengthen the WTO, now known as the "Ottawa Group". Since last October, Ministers 
have met three times, most recently in Paris on 23 May. There was also an informal meeting of some 
Ottawa Group members last week in Japan.  
2.12.   Beyond the Ottawa Group, Canada is working to update the WTO's rule -book to ensure that 
the rules reflect 21st century realities. For example, Canada is advancing negotiations on fisheries 
subsidies and agriculture and is engaged in all of the Joint  Statement Initiatives, including 
discussions on e -commerce and domestic regulation of services.  
2.13.   Canadians have shown themselves united in confronting the challenges of growing 
protectionism. Our efforts signal to the world that trade matters, that rules matter, and that we will 
not be drawn into the world of protectionism.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  Trade diversification  
2.14.   Canada has also pursued an ambitious trade diversification agenda, including through the 
negotiation of comprehensive free trade agreements. This has resulted in a few notable 
accomplishments including provisional application of CETA — Canada's free trade agreement with 
the European Union, which marked its one -year anniversary this past fall; bringing into force the 
CPTPP with key Asia -Pacific trading partners; and  signing the Canada -U.S.-Mexico Agreement, or 
CUSMA, which will modernize NAFTA once it enters into force.  
2.15.   Last fall, we welcomed our Ukrainian counterparts to Ottawa for the inaugural Canada -Ukraine 
FTA Joint Commission, which celebrated the first anniver sary of our free trade agreement.  
2.16.   This past February, Canada brought into force a modernized and inclusive free trade 
agreement with Chile, making Canada the first G20 country to adopt a Gender chapter in a free 
trade agreement.  
2.17.   And, last month, Canada r atified its modernized and inclusive FTA with Israel – improving on 
what was already a great trading relationship.  
2.18.   Finally, Canada is actively pursuing opportunities in other important and fast -growing markets 
and is making inroads: Canada is engaged in F TA negotiations with the Pacific Alliance and 
MERCOSUR, and is exploring possible FTA negotiations with ASEAN.  
2.19.   Taken together, Canada now has 14 FTAs in force covering 51 countries, connecting our 
businesses to 1.5 billion of the world's consumers and two thirds of global GDP.  
2.20.   In addition to including investment chapters in its FTAs, Canada negotiates stand -alone 
bilateral investment treaties that we refer to as FIPAs, or Foreign Investment Promotion and 
Protection Agreements. These investment treaties aim to provide greater predictability and certainty 
for Canadian investors considering investment opportunities abroad.  
2.21.   Following public consultations, Canada is currently in the process of modernizing its FIPA 
model to bring it in line with the government's inclusive trade and investment agenda.   
2.22.   While this degree of market access is impressive, Canadians understand that market access 
alone does not guarantee jobs and prosperity. Encouraging Canadian businesses of all sizes and all 
sectors to become global e xporters is a national priority.  
2.23.   Canada's trade diversification agenda aims to ensure that we are maximizing growth at home 
by fully capitalizing on emerging economic opportunities abroad.  
2.24.   To that end, the Government has launched a Trade Diversification Strategy aimed at helping 
Canadian businesses take advantage of hard -won access to overseas markets.   
2.25.   The Strategy sets an ambitious target of increasing overseas exports by 50% by 2025, and 
aims to position Canada as an even more globally -connected econo my in the years ahead.  
2.26.   In Canada's previous Trade policy Review, the WTO noted that removing additional barriers 
to investment would reverse the trend of Canada's declining share of FDI. We have taken steps to 
address this. In fact, 2018 marked a 60% incr ease in FDI flows to Canada at a time when global 
capital flows into OECD countries dropped by 23%.  
2.27.   In March 2018, the Government of Canada created Invest in Canada, an agency whose focus 
is to streamline and encourage global investment into Canada by pro viding services that make it 
easier for global companies to choose Canada for their next business expansion.   
Commerce inclusif  
2.28.   Bien que le Canada demeure un ardent défenseur du système commercial multilatéral, nous 
reconnaissons également les préoccupations qui alimentent la pensée et la rhétorique WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  protectionnistes, notamment le fait que les avantages du commerce ne sont pas répar tis 
équitablement.  
2.29.   Le Canada propose une approche inclusive à l'égard du commerce, qui vise à faire en sorte 
que toutes les sphères de la société puissent tirer parti des possibilités qui découlent des accords 
sur le commerce et l'investissement.  
2.30.   Cette ap proche prévoit une mobilisation accrue du public à l'égard de la politique commerciale, 
la recherche de dispositions dans nos accords commerciaux pour protéger et renforcer les droits des 
travailleurs et l'environnement, la promotion de l'égalité des sexes  et du renforcement du pouvoir 
des femmes par une participation accrue au commerce international. De plus, nous favorisons des 
possibilités pour les groupes traditionnellement sous -représentés, comme les petites et moyennes 
entreprises (PME) et les peuples  autochtones, de participer au commerce international.  
2.31.   For example, we believe that the link between trade and gender is an important consideration, 
and that is why Canada has sought gender provisions in our newest FTAs. Canada also has a 
longstanding Busi ness Women in International Trade program - or BWIT - which provides targeted 
support and services to export -ready and export -active women -owned businesses to better exploit 
supplier -diversity and other global commercial opportunities. Over the past decade , more than 
1,500  women -owned businesses have participated in BWIT -led trade missions and initiatives.  
2.32.   Canada is spearheading similar work here at the WTO, where we actively championed the 
WTO Joint Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment, wh ich was endorsed in 
December 2017 by over 120 WTO Members and Observers. In this regard, we were pleased to 
organize the very first workshop, on trade and gender -based analysis, to be held under the auspices 
of the Declaration.  
2.33.   Finally, Canada has committ ed to ensuring that all of Canada's international trade and 
investment agreements are subject to a comprehensive analysis of gender impacts through Gender 
Based Analysis Plus (GBA+) assessments.  
2.34.   Canada has also prioritized its relationship with Indigenous  peoples based on recognition of 
rights, respect, cooperation, and partnership. During the review period, Canada has sought to 
increase the opportunities for Indigenous people to benefit from international trade and investment, 
while preserving their const itutionally protected rights.  
2.35.   Canada has also sought to include SMEs in its inclusive approach to trade. SMEs comprise 
99.7% of Canadian businesses. However, as of 2017, only 11.7% actively export goods and/or 
services.  
2.36.   Canada aims to boost FTA utilizatio n by SMEs through the inclusion of dedicated SME chapters 
that contain general provisions that recognize the importance of SMEs to the economy and facilitate 
cooperative activities and information sharing. The CPTPP, CUSMA, and the modernized 
Canada -Israel  FTA all contain SME chapters.  
2.37.   Please now allow me to summarize several important trade -related changes to our domestic 
regime since our last Trade Policy Review. These include Canada's ratification and accession to 
several important multilateral IP treat ies such as the World Intellectual Property Organization 
(WIPO) Marrakesh Treaty and the WIPO Hague Agreement, as well as implementing certain IP 
provisions in trade agreements like CETA and CPTPP.  
2.38.   Canada has also taken measures to modernize our sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) 
approach, moving towards a more preventive and systems -based approach - which will allow for 
better adaptation to emerging risks and global and scientific trends – while improving client access 
through electronic services and inform ation on regulatory compliance. And, seeking to avoid barriers 
to trade and the promotion of regulatory cooperation, Canada has set out guidance for regulators to 
take into account international trade considerations when reviewing or developing regulations .  
2.39.   Finally, the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, or CFTA, entered into force in July 2017 and 
introduced important advancements to Canada's internal trade framework that have enhanced the 
flow of goods and services, investment and labour mobility within Cana da. The CFTA also better WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  aligns Canada's domestic trade commitments with those in its international agreements, such as 
CETA.  
Conclusion  
2.40.   In conclusion Mr. Chairman, in the face of global uncertainty, the Government of Canada has 
prioritized pursuit of trad e diversification and free trade in order to drive continued global economic 
growth, rather than turning inward and retreating to protectionism. This approach is reflected in 
Canada's role on WTO reform as well as its successes in pursuing ambitious and co mprehensive free 
trade agreements with new partners.  
2.41.   At the heart of Canada's trade policy is a desire to protect and build global confidence in the 
benefits of liberalized trade and the multilateral system that supports it, safeguarding the economic 
health of all trading nations.  
2.42.   Canada will continue to work with partners bilaterally and through multilateral forums to build 
the trust and collaboration needed to solve challenges that matter to all our citizens, so they can 
make the most of the opportuniti es that come from globalization.  
2.43.   I recognize that many here have questions about our policies. More than 600 questions have 
already been posed to Canada, and we have provided answers to all of them. I expect even more 
questions after opening the floor to all of you here today. I welcome this engagement and your 
valuable contributions to Canada's review. Thank you.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Thank you very much Mr. Chairman and good morning to all of you. I would like to start by 
thanking you for inviting me to participate as discussant for this TPR and also in joining you in 
welcoming the Canadian delegation to Geneva led by Ms. Kendal Hembro ff, Director General for 
Trade Negotiations. It is also a great pleasure for me to share some remarks on this very important 
and active Member of the WTO in my personal capacity. I would also like to thank both the 
Secretariat and Canada for their reports,  which provide us with very insightful elements to conduct 
today's review.  
3.2.  The significance of Canada's economy and its participation in world trade stands out in many 
ways. With only about 0.5% of the world's population, it represents five times that figu re when it 
comes to world trade with 2.5%, ranking 12th as merchandise exporter and importer. Canada is 
also the 10th largest economy by GDP size, endowed with great abundance of natural resources, 
including for instance 9% of world's forest, and it is the  6th largest producer of electricity. Canada 
is a multicultural society with a high standard of living as indicated by the UNDP's 2018 Human 
Development Index, which ranks it 12th, and it also enjoys a high nominal per -capita income of over 
USD 46,000.  
3.3.  Canada´s overall economic performance during the period under review was favourable. 
Although growth went down to 0.7% in 2015, it bounced back to a higher 3% in 2017, allowing the 
economy to mark its lowest unemployment rate in the last 44 years in 2018, at 5.8%. Trade plays 
an important role in supporting growth as reflected by the high ratio of trade to GDP at 65%, and 
the significant ratio between trade and employment as one in six jobs are related to exports.  
3.4.  Not surprisingly, Canada continued to purs ue a very ambitious bilateral, regional and 
multilateral trade agenda during the period under review. The implementation of CETA with the EU, 
under provisional application since September 2017; the entry into force of CPTPP for Canada at the 
end of 2018; a nd the modernization of the Canada -US-Mexico Agreement, yet to enter into force, 
mark important developments that took place during the review period. These agreements are of 
high significance not only as a result of the weight of the trading partners invo lved, but also for the 
institutional and long -term implications of new commitments and disciplines, which I am sure will 
be subject of interest for this Review.  
3.5.  Canada is at the forefront of innovation when it comes to negotiating trade rules, which is 
reflected in its recent FTA negotiations. This includes, for instance, chapters on trade and gender 
and on small and medium size enterprises in some of its amended FTAs. Canada's interest in these 
topics is also reflected in this House as an active promoter of dialogue and further understanding of 
these so -called "new issues" at the multilateral level.  
3.6.  The remarkable role of Canada in supporting the multilateral trading system is evidenced in 
various ways. For instance, its ratification of the TFA in Decembe r 2016, is complemented by its 
strong support to its implementation, as an important donor to the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
Facility. More recently, it has led the Ottawa Group initiative, an exercise to promote dialogue to 
identify pragmatic ways to en hance the work of the WTO.  
3.7.  Let me now turn to some of the recommendations from previous TPRs as I discuss some of the 
main developments for this review period.  
3.8.  First, I noted that Members suggested Canada to continue its efforts to diversify its export 
market destinations and products base. During the review period, the participation of the 
United  States as the main export market and source of Canada´s imports went slightly down from 
76% to 75%; and from 54% to 51%, respectively. On the other hand, the par ticipation of mineral 
fuels and oils on total exports went down from 27% to 22% during the same period, even though 
overall exports grew from CAD  526 billion to CAD  583 billion. It will be interesting to hear further 
about Canada's additional efforts on th is matter as it will be implementing its Export Diversification 
Strategy, announced in November 2018.  
3.9.  The Secretariat's report notes that increasing competitiveness remains a challenge for Canada 
as it relates to the performance of business labour product ivity. In this regard, the support for 
innovation seems to be key for Canada to continue expanding and diversifying its products base. WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  The launching of the Strategic Innovation Fund in July 2017 represents an interesting and concrete 
initiative to foster R &D and the promotion of national innovation ecosystems, which I am certain will 
be of interest for Members to learn about.  
3.10.   Concerning foreign direct investment, Canada is among the top sources of FDI around the 
world. According to UNCTAD's 2017 figures, i t ranked 7th with investments of about USD  77 billion. 
In contrast, it was the 15th recipient of FDI for the same year with inward investments of 
USD 24 billion. This denotes something mentioned in previous TPRs, related to the possibility for 
Canada to in crease its efforts to attract more foreign direct investment.  
3.11.   The Secretariat´s report notes that most inward FDI restrictions remain. On the other hand, 
the reports also note that Canada has strived to increase the promotion and facilitation for incoming 
FDI. Notably, during the review period "Invest in Canada" was created and the Government 
eliminated the formal approval procedures for many potential investments as a result of the increase 
of investment review threshold levels.  
3.12.   On the issue of FDI attrac tion, it might be worth to consider the possible links between 
investment inflows and the ease of doing business. The World Bank´s Ease of Doing Business Report 
for 2019, ranks Canada in position 22. Furthermore, some specific indicators within the index m ay 
signal areas for consideration regarding the business environment such as trading across borders, 
dealing with construction permits, enforcing contracts and obtaining electricity.  
3.13.   Several important changes took place during the review period in other a reas of interest to 
Members as we look back to previous TPRs. In particular, the entry into force of the Canadian Free 
Trade Agreement (CFTA) on 1 July 2017, replacing the Agreement on Internal Trade. As the CFTA 
has been aimed to "reduce and eliminate, to  the extent possible, barriers to the free movement of 
persons, goods, services, and investments within Canada and to establish an open, efficient and 
stable domestic market" it will be very interesting to hear from the Canadian delegation about the 
progre ss made in achieving these objectives, and how it aligns domestic trade rules with Canada´s 
international obligations.  
3.14.   Also, going back to issues discussed in previous reviews, agriculture stands out when thinking 
about Canada´s international competitive trading profile as one of the world's top exporters of a 
wide portfolio of products including beef, soybeans, pork, wheat, canola and pulses. At the same 
time, however, tariffs, subsidies and domestic support, and the use of supply management channels, 
in particular for dairy and poultry products, have drawn the attention from Members before and 
continue to be a matter of interest for this TPR. It will be interesting to hear how Canada is addressing 
these concerns as well as any current or further future pl ans for these sectors.  
3.15.   Finally, it will be of interest to learn how Canada's updating of its Intellectual Property Laws 
during the review period have strengthened its regulations in this area, and if there are any pending 
issues in its efforts to modernize  its legislation.  
3.16.   Canada has witnessed a very interesting process of domestic and international changes in the 
last four years in a challenging international environment. Progress has been achieved in areas such 
as the functioning of its internal market a nd a very ambitious trade negotiation agenda. It also 
seems that there is room to continue working on other fronts such as agricultural policy, inward FDI 
and export market diversification. At the multilateral level, Canada has continued to be a strong 
supporter of the rules -based system as a constructive promoter of dialogue in the search of 
pragmatic approaches to strengthening and improving the functioning of the WTO.  
3.17.   This marks the end of my opening remarks as discussant of Canada's 11th Trade Policy 
Review. I would like to thank you again for the opportunity to share these thoughts on the recent 
trade and economic performance of this very important Member of the WTO. Thank you very much.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
SUISSE  
4.1.  Le Canada semble être bien équipé f ace aux remous et aux incertitudes de l'économie 
mondiale. En général, les fondamentaux macroéconomiques du pays sont solides. Les prévisions 
pour la croissance économique restent positives. Le chômage a baissé et l'inflation, qui fut stable 
ces dernières années, n'a que légèrement repris, ce qui est peut -être lié à la dépréciation récente 
du taux de change réel.  
4.2.  Nous entrevoyons néanmoins un potentiel de déstabilisation dans certains domaines. La 
position budgétaire – saine au niveau fédéral – pourrait êt re améliorée au niveau des provinces qui 
affichent un endettement parfois considérable. La situation pourrait s'aggraver en raison des risques 
liés aux aléas d'un marché du logement grevé par un fort endettement des ménages.  
4.3.  Le Canada reste un pays compéti tif dans beaucoup de secteurs. Mais ses exportateurs ont 
récemment perdu des parts de marché. En outre, les conflits commerciaux actuels pèsent sur 
l'économie canadienne qui doit faire d'importants efforts afin d'améliorer sa productivité.  
4.4.  Nous encourageo ns le Gouvernement canadien à poursuivre sur la voie des réformes. La 
création d'un guichet unique pour les investisseurs étrangers améliorera certes l'attrait du site 
d'implantation canadien. Cependant, les investissements directs étrangers y sont encore soumis à 
des restrictions dans nombre de secteurs. Or, les expériences réalisées par plusieurs pays ont 
démontré que les secteurs ouverts aux investissements étrangers connaissent une productivité 
souvent supérieure à celle des secteurs dominés par des cap itaux nationaux. Un régime 
d'investissement plus libéral pourrait générer des gains de compétitivité bienvenus.  
4.5.  Le Canada demeure un partenaire très important pour la Suisse. Mon pays est le cinquième 
plus grand investisseur étranger au pays à la feuille d'érable. Les investissements cumulés des 
entreprises suisses au Canada s'élèvent à 50 milliards de francs suisses et soutiennent plus de 
32'000 emplois. Le commerce des marchandises s'est également développé de manière dynamique. 
Les échanges dans les deu x sens atteignent 6 milliards de francs suisses. Cette relation riche et 
variée résulte aussi de l'accord de libre -échange que la Suisse a conclu avec le Canada dans le cadre 
de l'AELE. L'accord est entré en vigueur en 2009 et des travaux en vue de sa mode rnisation sont en 
cours. La Suisse est intéressée à étoffer ses relations de libre -échange avec le Canada de manière 
à ce qu'elles offrent une valeur ajoutée pour toutes les parties.  
4.6.  Le Canada est un partenaire incontournable pour nous tous à l'OMC. Nous a pprécions 
particulièrement le dynamisme de sa délégation à Genève placée sous la houlette compétente de 
l'Ambassadeur de Boer. La Suisse félicite le Canada pour son engagement déterminé en faveur du 
système commercial multilatéral. Cet engagement se matéri alise notamment à travers l'initiative 
d'Ottawa visant à réformer et redynamiser l'OMC et à laquelle la Suisse participe activement. Nous 
partageons avec le Canada la conviction que l'OMC doit rester un pilier fondamental du commerce 
international et du dé veloppement économique. J'ajouterai que le Canada respecte scrupuleusement 
ses obligations en matière de notifications. Un exemple à suivre.  
4.7.  La Suisse a soumis de nombreuses questions par écrit. Le Canada y a répondu dans les délais 
et nous lui en sommes très reconnaissants. Je souhaite toutefois insister sur deux aspects qui nous 
préoccupent. Notre attention a en effet été retenue par le transfert de 800 tonnes de fromage du 
contingent tarifaire autrefois inscrit à l'OMC vers un contingent réservé à l'Uni on européenne. Nous 
avons également pris note des mesures de sauvegarde adoptées par les autorités canadiennes sur 
des importations de produits en acier. Ces mesures prévoient des exemptions pour certains pays. 
Nous voudrions demander au Canada de mieux pr éciser les bases sur lesquelles ces exemptions ont 
été octroyées.  
4.8.  Avant de conclure, je tiens à souligner que nous apprécions le fait que le rapport du 
gouvernement canadien aborde la thématique des PMEs et leur rôle dans le commerce international. 
Nous so mmes aussi heureux que le sujet du commerce électronique figure en bonne place dans le 
rapport du Secrétariat.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.9.  Je vous remercie Monsieur le Président et souhaite à la délégation canadienne un Examen de 
politique commerciale fructueux.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.10.   Canada plays an important role in world trade and the global economy. Its economy continues 
to grow at a stable rate, driven by strong exports of services and goods, and with a well -diversified 
base of foreign  investment. We are pleased to see that the Canadian Government continues to 
pursue an inclusive trade policy focussing on transparency, the environment, SMEs, labour rights, 
gender equality, and the rights of indigenous peoples. Its trade agenda not only sets a good example 
for many of us, but also takes the lead in targeting some of the newly -emerging issues of today and 
tomorrow.  
4.11.   Multilaterally, we applaud Canada's active participation in the WTO, in particular its 
contribution to new initiatives, such a s ITA Expansion, trade and gender, and the current debate on 
WTO reform. We are already working closely with Canada on seeking to improve the transparency 
and predictability of Members' trade policies, and on the big issue of strengthening the deliberative  
function of the WTO.  
4.12.   On the subject of e -Commerce, Canada, to its credit, has recently introduced relevant laws 
and regulations designed to enhance electronic trade and protect consumers online at the same 
time. We are very willing to collaborate further with Canada in this area, especially on ways of 
developing free and fair trade. On fishery subsidies, we cooperate closely on identifying the 
meaningful obligations and transparency needed for existing international instruments to discipline 
the subsidies that are harmful to sustainability. On agriculture, Canada's commitment to eliminating 
its remaining export subsidies by the end of 2020 is much welcomed.  
4.13.   While appreciating these positive achievements, however, there is one concern that I simply 
must rais e here, and that is Canada's continuing active use of trade remedies. Between 2015 and 
2018, the number of anti -dumping measures adopted still increased compared to the previous 
review period. By the end of 2018, there were 83 definitive AD measures (30 mo re than in 2014) 
and 28 countervailing measures in place. Over two -thirds of the AD measures were applied on steel 
products. The average length of time that the AD measures were in place was 6.4 years. Many of 
the sunset reviews resulted in continued AD/CV  duties. And furthermore, one provisional safeguard 
measure on steel products was also in place. Our hope is that Canada will minimise its recourse to 
such trade remedies in the future, and work on more credible rules to resolve the issues that work 
to the  benefit of industries and consumers alike.  
4.14.   I would just like to add, for information, that we have long enjoyed a growing and fruitful 
partnership with Canada in many areas of trade and investment. We are Canada's 13th largest 
trading partner globally, an d its 5th in Asia. Bilateral trade between us increased by over 17% in 
2018, and the product mix is highly complementary.  
4.15.   In the face of the current international economic and trade situation, we look forward to 
strengthening that economic cooperation even  further in the future - bilaterally, plurilaterally, and 
multilaterally.  
4.16.   We raised some advance written questions to Canada on a range of sectors and we would like 
to thank Canada for its replies to these questions. Finally, we wish Canada a successful 11 th Trade 
Policy Review.  
NORWAY  
4.17.   Let me start by underlining that Norway appreciates our close and long -standing cooperation 
with Canada in the WTO. Canada has always been a key player in shaping the multilateral trading 
system. In the current situation with  tendencies towards protectionism and managed trade, we 
strongly appreciate Canada's active engagement to strengthen and modernize the WTO.  
4.18.   In particular, Norway would like to commend Canada's leadership in the Ottawa Group. This 
group consists of 13 WTO M embers, including Norway, working together to safeguard the multilateral WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  rules-based trading system and to ensure a relevant, dynamic, and well -functioning WTO through 
meaningful modernization.  
4.19.   Bilaterally Norway and Canada enjoy a strong trade relationsh ip that benefits both countries. 
The current flow of Norway -Canada trade is mainly concentrated in the energy and mining sector. 
Canada's main imports from Norway are petroleum products, raw oil and ferro magnesium, while 
Canada's main exports are nickel m attes, copper and raw oil.   
4.20.   There is a potential for expansion of services and investment activities across a diverse range 
of industries, particularly in the high -tech, health and energy sectors. Long -term business 
development will be facilitated by join t efforts in research and innovation, and eliminating residual 
barriers to trade and investments. There is also a large number of Norwegian companies established 
in Canada, most notably in the marine, maritime and defence industries, in addition to the oil , gas 
and supply industries.  
4.21.   Let me also add that the Norwegian Pension Fund Global by the end of 2018 had invested 
close to USD 28 billion in Canada. These investments include equity investment in more than 
210 companies in a wide range of industries, as  well as fixed income holdings.  
4.22.   We note that during the review period, Canada has pursued several bilateral and plurilateral 
trade agreements, most notably the CPTPP and CETA agreements. The 2017 CETA ratification also 
demonstrates the need for modernizin g the agreement between Canada and the countries of the 
European Free Trade Association (EFTA).   
4.23.   Canada is an important fisheries nation and we value highly our excellent cooperation in the 
field of fisheries. Canada is an active participant in the WTO fi sheries subsidies negotiations. We 
hope that Norway and Canada will continue to work closely together in order to contribute to the 
successful conclusion of the negotiations by the end of 2019. We should also take advantage of our 
work in the High Level Pa nel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy to support the negotiations.   
4.24.   Norway would like to commend Canada's active engagement and promotion of gender 
equality, both in the WTO and in free trade agreements. We encourage other WTO Members to follow 
suit, since reducing barriers to female participation in trade has a positive effect on income and 
gender equality.  
4.25.   Norway and Canada share the same concern regarding the negative effects of inefficient fossil 
fuels subsidies, and we are both interested in reducing t hose types of subsidies. Norway calls upon 
Canada to take active part in the discussion here in the WTO aimed at achieving ambitious and 
effective disciplines on inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.  
4.26.   In closing I would like to emphasize that Norway is lookin g forward to further enhancing our 
cooperation with Canada on trade related issues, including through discussions of ways to strengthen 
and modernize the WTO.  
MÉXICO  
4.27.   Canadá cuenta con una economía abierta y volcada al comercio exterior, con flujos 
comerciales que representan 65% del PIB, lo cual le ha permitido sortear las recientes crisis y 
mantenerse al margen del proteccionismo.  
4.28.   Durante el período de 2015 al 2018, la economía canadiense ha recobrado su impulso. 
Después de un crecimiento débil en la primera mitad del período, debido a la disminución de los 
precios del petróleo, logró una fuerte expansión desde mediados de 2016 gracias al establecimiento 
de políticas monetarias y fiscales de estímulo. La tasa de desempleo se encuentra en su nivel más 
bajo, la inflación se ha mantenido controlada y su población goza de un elevado nivel de vida.  
4.29.   Encomiamos la política comercial de Canadá, que ostenta como prioridades fu ndamentales la 
diversificación de su comercio internacional y la inversión extranjera directa, así como el 
establecimiento de un enfoque inclusivo; centrado en la transparencia, el medio ambiente, las 
MiPyMEs, y las cuestiones de género y de las poblacione s autóctonas.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.30.   Destacamos la importancia de continuar sus esfuerzos de apertura comercial y para 
aprovechar las oportunidades que le brindan sus 14 acuerdos de libre comercio con 51 países. Si 
bien la dependencia en su mayor socio comercial ha disminuido, é sta sigue presente, pues en el 
periodo de 2014 a 2018, más de la mitad de sus importaciones y tres cuartas partes de sus 
exportaciones fueron destinadas a Estados Unidos.  
4.31.   Asimismo, reconocemos el esfuerzo de Canadá para atender las deficiencias de su comercio 
interprovincial, en particular destacamos que las mejoras alcanzadas en el "Acuerdo de Libre 
Comercio Canadiense" presentan oportunidades para aumentar su productividad, fomentar 
innovación y elevar el grado de armonización de regulaciones con las  obligaciones internacionales. 
Según cálculos del FMI, derribar estas barreras con un esfuerzo colectivo y concertado podría 
aumentar el PIB real en casi un 4 por ciento.  
4.32.   Aplaudimos los esfuerzos de liberalización de Canadá en el comercio de bienes, lo que  se ha 
traducido a condiciones de libre comercio NMF para el 70,4% de las líneas arancelarias. No obstante, 
notamos que la protección se mantiene para el sector agrícola, con aranceles más elevados y crestas 
arancelarias, para sectores como:  animales y pr oductos de origen animal, leche y productos lácteos, 
y cereales.  
4.33.   En materia de Facilitación del Comercio, las medidas implementadas en el período de examen 
le permiten una mayor automatización y agilizan su despacho aduanero. Sin embargo, es importante 
destacar que durante el periodo 2015 a 2019, Canadá descendió del lugar 16 al 22 en el Informe 
Doing Business del Banco Mundial, y, en particular en el rubro de comercio transfronterizo, su 
descenso fue más drástico al pasar del lugar 23 al 50.  
4.34.   Reconocemos la  importancia del sector de los servicios en la economía canadiense, el cual 
representa más del 70% del PIB. Respecto al sector financiero, felicitamos a Canadá por flexibilizar 
la regulación federal que permitirá a sus instituciones financieras ampliar sus  actividades 
comerciales. En el sector de las telecomunicaciones, las medidas para implementar el estándar 5G, 
así como el lanzamiento de consultas para modificar la ley de telecomunicaciones y la de 
radiodifusión son señales claras de su compromiso para a tender las demandas de una economía 
digital en expansión.  
4.35.   Canadá es un importante socio comercial de México, es nuestro segundo mercado de 
exportación y el XX proveedor mundial.  
4.36.   Recientemente ambos países hemos suscrito el CPTPP y actualizado nuestro trat ado comercial 
regional, el T -MEC. Ambos acuerdos cuentan con disciplinas comerciales profundas que, sin duda, 
permitirán seguir fortaleciendo nuestra integración y relación comercial, y nos brindarán más 
herramientas para enfrentar los retos comerciales ac tuales que la región y el entorno económico 
internacional nos presenta.  
4.37.   No puedo concluir mi intervención sin antes felicitar a Canadá por ser uno de los Miembros 
con el mejor historial en materia de notificaciones. Reconocemos su compromiso con el sistema  
multilateral de comercio, mismo que hace patente en su liderazgo activo y constructivo en el proceso 
de reforma de la OMC, a través del Grupo de Ottawa y en las diversas iniciativas para mejorar y 
modernizar la OMC.  
4.38.   Por último, agradezco a Canadá las res puestas a las preguntas formuladas por mi delegación 
y le deseamos mucho éxito en el presente Examen.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.39.   Let me begin by congratulating Canada on its sound economic performance over the last few 
years. Canada's economy has been operating at ne ar capacity amidst the lowest unemployment rate 
in 40 years as well as low inflation. As an open economy that depends significantly on international 
trade, Canada is well placed to appreciate the value of a predictable international trading 
environment.  
4.40.   We fully share Canada's dedication to upholding and strengthening the rules -based 
multilateral trading system in the current time of trouble. Canada is a reliable, committed partner in WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  our shared endeavour to keep the WTO relevant and modernize it so that i t can "continue to provide 
a platform for economic growth through trade", as the Canadian Government report puts it. We 
appreciate Canada's initiative to advance discussions on WTO modernisation in the so -called Ottawa 
Group, in which the EU is a participa nt. We also value Canada's concrete contributions to 
safeguarding the dispute settlement system, improving the WTO's monitoring function and 
advancing rulemaking in the ongoing negotiations on e -commerce and fisheries subsidies, amongst 
others.  
4.41.   Further, th e EU commends Canada for its efforts to ensure that trade is not only open, but 
inclusive. Governments must indeed work to ensure that the benefits of trade are accessible to all 
citizens, and the EU and Canada are showing leadership in this regard also in  the framework of 
CETA, the EU -Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement, by enhancing the 
participation of SMEs in trade, women's economic empowerment and the implementation of the Paris 
Agreement on Climate Change.  
4.42.   The EU is Canada's second large st trading partner after the United States both for goods 
(absorbing 7% of Canadian exports and accounting for 12% of imports) and for services (accounting 
for 17% of Canada's exports and 19% of its imports).  
4.43.   At the time of Canada's eleventh Trade Policy Review, the trade ties between the EU and 
Canada are closer than ever. 2018 was the first full year in which CETA was provisionally applied. 
While this is a short time from the perspective of statistics, we are pleased to note that bilateral 
trade flows ar e increasing compared to the average of the previous three years. The institutional 
structure of CETA is up and running, the ratification process in the EU is ongoing and our focus is 
now on implementing CETA as a progressive agreement promoting open, rule s-based trade and 
delivering mutually beneficial outcomes.  
4.44.   Certain obstacles to trade can persist even in an open trading economy. In the case of Canada, 
the obstacles that EU operators encounter are concentrated almost fully in the agri -food sector. 
Several of the EU's written questions focused on this sector, for example:  
• The management and protection of the milk and dairy sector;  
• The alcohol sale and distribution practices at both federal and provincial level;  
• The enforcement of protection for Geographi cal Indications; and  
• The review of Canada's tariff rate quota management system.  
4.45.   More broadly, we also addressed questions to Canada in order to better understand the 
potential systemic effects of certain new CUSMA provisions, for example with regard to r ules of 
origin.  
4.46.   We thank Canada for having chosen the alternative timeframe again, which has allowed us to 
review Canada's replies to our questions ahead of the meeting.  
4.47.   The European Union looks forward to continuing our close cooperation with Canada on ou r 
shared goal to leverage trade for more prosperity, both in the context of CETA implementation and 
WTO reform.  
4.48.   On behalf of the EU, I wish Canada a productive and successful review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.49.   Canada is a neighbour and key trading partner, and its tra de regime continues to be of keen 
interest to the United States. The United States is by far Canada's number one trading partner, 
accounting for 75.1% of Canada's merchandise goods exports and over half of its goods imports, as 
noted in the Secretariat's r eport. Goods and services trade between Canada and the United States 
totalled USD 714.1 billion in 2018, with a total U.S. trade surplus of USD 7.0 billion. In 2018, goods 
exports from the United States to Canada totalled USD 298.7 billion and imports reac hed 
USD 318.5  billion, yielding a U.S. goods trade deficit of USD 19.8 billion with Canada.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.50.   The United States is proud of the longstanding and broad trading relationship between our 
countries. The U.S. -Canada Free Trade Agreement entered into force in 1989  and was succeeded by 
the North American Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994. These agreements have brought the benefits 
of increased cooperation and decreased barriers to trade to both of our economies over the past 
30 years. However, in more than two decades  since its entry into force, the NAFTA had become 
outdated, had failed to deliver its expected benefits, and was in need of substantial updating.  
4.51.   Since Canada's last Trade Policy Review, the United States entered into negotiations with  
4.52.   Canada and Mexico se eking to modernize and rebalance the NAFTA. The United 
States -Mexico -Canada Agreement (USMCA), signed on 30 November 2018, is a comprehensive 
overhaul of the NAFTA and a high -standard trade agreement that will promote fairer and more 
balanced trade between  our countries. The USMCA modernizes the NAFTA to include 21st century 
standards in key areas such as digital trade and intellectual property, and it lowers barriers to trade 
in services. The USMCA is a notable achievement for the United States, Canada, an d Mexico, and 
the United States looks forward to working together on implementing ambitious commitments 
undertaken in the Agreement.  
4.53.   In addition, we commend Canada for its constructive efforts at the WTO — alongside a diverse 
group of co -sponsors — to adva nce our proposal to improve Members' compliance with their existing 
notification obligations.  
4.54.   Despite these positive developments, the United States has some specific concerns to raise 
in this Review.  
4.55.   The United States views the enforcement of intellectual  property rights as an important tool 
to foster creative industries, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and to fuel economic growth. As 
such, the United States is interested to know more about the ongoing parliamentary review of the 
Copyright Act and the re cent reforms to the Copyright Board. The United States also will monitor 
Canada's implementation of the USMCA's IP provisions and looks forward to working closely with 
Canada in the coming year to address priority IP issues.  
4.56.   Additionally, as noted in Canad a's previous Trade Policy Review, trade in agricultural products 
continues to be an important component of our trading relationship. The United States encourages 
Canada to review its agricultural policies that impose excessive tariffs and restrict imports of 
supply -managed dairy, poultry, and egg products. Reducing barriers to trade would benefit 
consumers in Canada and help increase the competitiveness of Canadian industries. Further, the 
United States would also underscore the importance of transparency i n dairy pricing policies and any 
new assistance to dairy farmers and processors, so that Members can be assured of Canada's 
compliance with its WTO commitments.  
4.57.   As Canada's largest trading partner, we share a strong interest in Canada's growth and 
prosperi ty. The United States appreciates the opportunity to engage in this dialogue and looks 
forward to continued work with Canada, both bilaterally and within the WTO.  
CHILE  
4.58.   Chile asigna un alto valor a su relación bilateral con Canadá. En los 78 años de relaci ones 
diplomáticas, los vínculos se han ido desarrollando sobre la base de valores compartidos en el ámbito 
internacional, como los derechos humanos, la libertad, la democracia, el respeto al derecho 
internacional y la defensa del multilateralismo,  
4.59.   De hecho , ambos países se reconocen mutuamente como países afines, "like minded", lo que 
se traduce en visiones e iniciativas comunes en diversos foros multilaterales.  
4.60.   Somos socios cercanos no solo en Naciones Unidas, sino también en el APEC, la OEA y por 
supuest o, en esta Casa.  
4.61.   Además, trabajamos juntos para ampliar las oportunidades y la integración comercial regional 
del Pacífico, en el contexto del Tratado Integral y Progresista de Asociación Transpacífico CPTPP. WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  Asimismo, desde el 2018 somos parte del grupo de acción en comercio inclusivo junto con 
Nueva  Zelandia.  
4.62.   Nuestra relación bilateral se fundamenta en dos pilares: el Acuerdo Marco de Asociación 
Estratégica de 2007, que amplía y profundiza la colaboración en sectores prioritarios, como el 
desarrollo sost enible, la educación y la agricultura, entre otros; y el Tratado de Libre Comercio de 
1997. Este último marcó un hito relevante en la política comercial de Chile, pues fue el primer tratado 
comercial suscrito con un país desarrollado. Después de México, fu e el segundo firmado con un 
miembro del NAFTA.  
4.63.   El acuerdo inicial no solo abarcó el comercio de Bienes, sino también Servicios, Inversiones, 
Medio Ambiente, y temas laborales.  
4.64.   El TLC con Canadá se ha ido actualizando y modernizando, entre otras materias c on la 
incorporación de un capítulo de Compras Públicas (2009), la suscripción de un Acuerdo Modificatorio 
al TLC (2012), que incorpora un capítulo de Servicios Financieros, junto con una serie de 
modificaciones a diferentes disciplinas del Acuerdo y finalm ente en el 2017 donde se incorporaron 
capítulos de obstáculos técnicos al comercio, medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias y un capítulo de 
género y comercio, el cual entró en vigor este año.  
4.65.   Canadá es un importante socio de Chile en inversiones, ocupando el segundo lugar en 
términos de stock de inversión extrajera directa concentrándose, entre otros, en minería, industria 
química y energía  
4.66.   Con respecto al presente examen, celebramos que Canadá ha tenido un crecimiento 
moderado del PIB, una inflación baja, una  relación relativamente estable entre la deuda del Gobierno 
federal y el PIB, un déficit decreciente de la cuenta corriente y una depreciación de la tasa de cambio 
real. Nos alegra comprobar que Canadá ha mostrado resiliencia y consistencia en su política 
comercial internacional que le ha permitido mantener su buen desempeño económico.  
4.67.   Es interesante conocer que Canadá ha centrado sus esfuerzos en diversificar el comercio 
internacional y la inversión extranjera directa (IED) y en aplicar un enfoque inclusiv o al comercio, 
focalizado en la transparencia, los derechos laborales, el medio ambiente, las pequeñas y medianas 
empresas (pymes), las cuestiones de género y las poblaciones autóctonas.  
4.68.   Sin embargo, nos preocupa que, tratándose de una economía abierta, qu e trabaja para 
prevenir la adopción de nuevas medidas proteccionistas, continúe otorgando importantes 
subvenciones e incentivos a su industria nacional, según el informe de la secretaria, lo que se replica 
en el ámbito federal, provincial y local.  
4.69.   Ello re sulta particularmente evidente en el sector de pesca y vino. Es por ello que estimamos 
que sería valioso que Canadá considere la disminución y eventual eliminación de los apoyos que 
podrían contribuir a distorsionar el comercio internacional.  
4.70.   En otros aspe ctos, nos llama la atención el aumento y la utilización intensiva de medidas de 
defensa comercial durante el periodo. Para ser más claros, 45 investigaciones antidumping y 
28 investigaciones en materia de derechos compensatorios, según el informe de la sec retaría.  
4.71.   Más allá de lo señalado específicamente, es claro que en esta casa Canadá aporta 
proactivamente y comparte una visión común con respecto a la liberalización del comercio 
internacional, en el marco multilateral que la OMC representa.  
4.72.   Canadá contr ibuye entre nosotros en la búsqueda de caminos de entendimiento en los difíciles 
momentos que vive tanto esta organización, como el comercio mundial y el multilateralismo a través 
de propuestas creativas. Es en este sentido, que su liderazgo en el Grupo de  Ottawa ha jugado un 
rol preponderante en las discusiones sobre las reformas y modernización de esta casa.  
4.73.   Finalmente, en el marco del presente examen, Chile desea a Canadá el mayor éxito.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  ICELAND  
4.74.   It is a particular pleasure to take part in the trade policy review of Canada today. Iceland and 
Canada enjoy a very long and deep historical relationship. One could say that our history goes back 
all the way to the year 1000 when Iceland born Leifur Eirík sson landed in Newfoundland and became 
thus the first European to put foot on the American continent. Centuries later, in the period from 
1870 and until the first world war, almost quarter of the Icelandic population emigrated to Canada, 
escaping from pove rty. The connection with Iceland is particularly strong in Manitoba where some 
people still speak Icelandic.  
4.75.   In fact, our President, Mr. Guðni Th. Jóhannesson and the First Lady, Ms. Eliza Reid, visited 
Canada last month to celebrate our historic connecti ons. Perhaps I could say that our president has 
also personally contributed much to furthering the good connections with Canada, as his wife, the 
first lady, is herself Canadian.   
4.76.   Our economic relationship is also strong. With our EFTA partners we conclud ed a free trade 
agreement with Canada that I took part in negotiating, and that was signed in 2008. We are currently 
exploring a possible modernisation and expansion of the agreement and where I have the pleasure 
of being the spokesperson on behalf of the EFTA countries. Our bilateral trade figures show that over 
the last five years we seen an average 22% growth rate in imports into Iceland and 33% growth in 
exports from Iceland to Canada.  
4.77.   Iceland wants to commend Canada for their leadership in upholding an d working to protect 
and safeguard the multilateral trading system and the important role they continue to play in WTO 
reform.  
4.78.   Iceland and Canada work closely together in Geneva on this front, and particularly in the field 
of inclusive trade and trade and gender. To date 127 WTO Members and Observers support the Joint 
Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment that was launched at the 11th 
Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. Canada played a key role in championing the declaration and 
is a ver y active member of the Trade Impact Working Group that was established under the auspices 
of the International Gender Champions - Geneva, that is co -chaired by Botswana, Iceland and the 
ITC.  
4.79.   Here at the WTO Canada has led some initiatives such as on domes tic regulation that aim to 
ensure that women are not discriminated against in the field of services trade.  
4.80.   Canada is a pioneer in the field of trade and gender, having negotiated particular trade and 
gender chapters both in the modernized Canada -Chile and Canada -Israel FTAs and working actively 
on advancing inclusive trade in other agreements and negotiations. It is interesting to learn of the 
experience of Canada on this front through the report and the answers to our advance written 
questions.  
4.81.   Among other  interesting information provided on this front are the particular administrative 
obstacles for women -led SMEs, such as border obstacles, logistical obstacles, market knowledge 
issues, IPR issues, lack of finance of inadequate cash -flow and financial risks  were discovered both 
in and outside Canada. The Gender Based Analysis Plus is also an interesting tool that is useful to 
learn about. These are just some of the examples of the interesting information provided by Canada 
on trade and gender and on efforts to ensure inclusive trade.  
4.82.   Canada has a very interesting experience to share and we thank Canada for the detailed 
information in their report and the answers to our questions and to the many other members that 
sent questions on the inclusive trade aspects . The answers are very useful as we implement the 
Joint Declaration and gather best practices, which we will present at MC12.  
4.83.   Iceland appreciates Canada's very active engagement in the WTO and their continued support 
and efforts to safeguard, strengthen an d reinforce the multilateral trading system. We wish the 
delegation of Canada every success for their eleventh trade policy review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  COLOMBIA  
4.84.   Para el periodo del examen, la economía canadiense presentó un desempeño económico 
ponderado que se refleja en in dicadores como el crecimiento moderado del PIB, la baja inflación, la 
estable relación entre deuda y PIB y un déficit de la cuenta corriente de la balanza de pagos por 
debajo del 3,6%. Se destaca además que en 2017 Canadá pasó a ser la décima economía más 
grande el mundo y el 12º mayor exportador e importador de mercancías.  
4.85.   En cuanto al Comercio Exterior, Canadá cuenta con una canasta exportadora relativamente 
diversificada. Vemos positivo que la participación del total de las exportaciones de mercancías de  
combustibles, aceites y minerales, los principales productos exportados, ha disminuido entre 2014 
y 2018 pasando del 27% al 22% respectivamente, explicado en parte, por la caída de los precios 
mundiales. Destacamos que el monto total de exportaciones de C anadá presentó un crecimiento 
pasando de CAD 526,800 millones en 2014 a CAD 583 mil millones en 2018 y mostrando signos de 
menor concentración de las exportaciones.  
4.86.   En lo relativo a la distribución geográfica del comercio de bienes, persiste la alta depen dencia 
del mercado de Estados Unidos, representando el 75,1% de las exportaciones y el 51% de las 
importaciones para el periodo evaluado. Sin embargo, destacamos que, a diferencia del Examen 
pasado, donde se dio un incremento de aproximadamente 3 puntos po rcentuales (pp), tanto en 
exportaciones como importaciones con ese socio comercial, para el periodo del Examen actual esa 
tendencia se corrigió presentado una baja de 1.7 pp en las exportaciones y 3 pp en importaciones.  
4.87.   Entre los asuntos que a nuestro ver  presentan desafíos y oportunidades para Canadá, y que 
ya fueron resaltados por algunas delegaciones, quisiéramos destacar lo siguiente:  
• El nuevo Acuerdo de Libre Comercio Canadiense (CFTA) causa curiosidad y algo de 
preocupación. Su objetivo principal es "reducir y eliminar, en la medida de lo posible, los 
obstáculos a la libre circulación de personas, mercancías, servicios e inversiones dentro del 
Canadá, y establecer un mercado interno abierto, eficiente y estable". Este objetivo es 
común cuando se habla  de 2 o más países, pero dadas las particularidades en la estructura 
del gobierno canadiense, entendemos que es mucho más ambicioso que el anterior Acuerdo 
de Comercio Interno.  
• En lo relativo a la Inversión Extranjera Directa (IED), Colombia celebra el au mento de los 
umbrales de examen del beneficio neto en el marco de la Ley de Inversiones de Canadá, la 
introducción de nuevos criterios de transparencia en el examen por motivos de seguridad 
nacional y la creación de la Oficina de Inversiones. Sin embargo, persisten las restricciones 
a la inversión en sectores de interés como el minero, de telecomunicaciones, pesquero, 
transporte y de las actividades culturares, los cuales consideramos que podrían ser 
liberalizados en el futuro.  
• En el sector agrícola, persis ten las medidas que afectan el comercio y distorsionan la 
competencia. En particular, en sectores donde la producción nacional está sujeta a 
regulación de la oferta como productos lácteos, aves de corral y huevos.  
 
4.88.   Pasando a las relaciones comerciales bila terales, éstas se encuentran enmarcadas en el 
Acuerdo de Promoción Comercial entre Colombia y Canadá, vigente desde el 2011 y 
complementadas por el Acuerdo de Cooperación Laboral y el Acuerdo de Cooperación Ambiental. El 
comercio se ha caracterizado por la s exportaciones colombianas de bienes minero -energéticos. No 
obstante, las exportaciones de bienes no minero energéticos se han consolidado en los últimos años, 
principalmente en productos como café, flores y de la metalurgia. En lo relativo con la IED de Canadá 
en Colombia, esta ha aumentado desde la entrada en vigor del Acuerdo, registrando un pico histórico 
en 2016 de USD 2,187 millones. Canadá es el principal inversionista en Colombia para ese periodo, 
jalonado por las inversiones de la firma canadiense  Brookfield, para la generación y comercialización 
de energía. Al cerrar el año 2018, la inversión canadiense en Colombia alcanzó USD 631 millones.  
4.89.   Para finalizar el tema bilateral, destacamos el crecimiento exponencial que ha tenido en 
turismo entre ambos países. La entrada de canadienses y la salida de colombianos pasaron de 88  mil 
a 128 mil en el periodo del examen. Flujo caracterizado por una participación casi igualitaria de 
viajeros de ambos países. Esperamos que vía la cooperación en materia com ercial se pueda ampliar 
y profundizar los beneficios de este Acuerdo.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.90.   Para finalizar, queremos destacar la labor que ha jugado Canadá a favor del fortalecimiento 
del sistema multilateral del comercio. Entre otras cosas, Canadá es un Miembro activo en los 
diferentes grupos de negociación, destacando su liderazgo en las discusiones técnicas en materia de 
ayuda interna en agricultura, la aplicación de los compromisos contraídos en el marco del acuerdo 
de ampliación del Acuerdo sobre Tecnología de la Informació n y la promoción de la participación de 
las mujeres en el comercio. Finalmente, resaltamos el liderazgo de Canadá en el grupo de Ottawa, 
para abordar los desafíos específicos que están poniendo en cuestión el sistema multilateral de 
comercio.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.91.   Australia values its close partnership with Canada. Working together, Australia and Canada 
have an important role to play in addressing common global economic challenges.  
4.92.   In this regard, we welcome Canada's efforts towards WTO reform through its leadership of  
the Ottawa Group. Canada has helped take forward reform issues at the WTO in a tangible manner, 
and Australia looks forward to continuing with these efforts alongside Canada.  
4.93.   Australia appreciates Canada's active participation in the Cairns Group, and its  leadership in 
the agriculture negotiations. Canada remains a driving force on agriculture and Australia looks 
forward to working closely together to deliver meaningful agricultural trade reform at MCI 2.  
4.94.   We also welcome Canada's support for negotiations o n new rules for e -commerce and services 
domestic regulation. We will work with Canada to progress the development of new trade rules in 
these areas, where technological change is set to open up new trade opportunities.  
4.95.   Canada is also active in broadening p articipation in international trade. We commend Canada 
for its focus on Gender participation and its support for MSMEs both in its FTAs and at the WTO 
through its involvement in the WTO's Informal Working Group on MSMEs and the Joint Declaration 
on Trade a nd Women's Economic Empowerment.  
4.96.   As the Secretariat's report notes, Canada is exemplary in meeting its notification 
requirements. There is room for improvement in Agriculture, where Canada's most recent domestic 
support notification is for 2015. We also lo ok forward to receiving  
4.97.   Canada's notification of its fisheries subsidies, noting the 30 June deadline for subsidy 
notifications.  
4.98.   Australia and Canada enjoy a strong trade and investment relationship. Our bilateral trade in 
goods and services reached A$6.9 billion in 2017. Canada's stable investment environment has also 
attracted significant investment from Australia. Canada is now the seventh largest destination for 
Australian investment, valued at A$77.3 billion in 2018.  
4.99.   Our trade and investment relationsh ip will grow stronger through the Comprehensive and 
Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). We are pleased the CPTPP has entered 
into force for both Australia and Canada on 30 December 2018, highlighting our shared commitment 
to rules -based trade and strengthening economic cooperation in our region.  
4.100.    We also welcome Canada's work to expand its network of WTO -consistent trade 
agreements. In particular, we welcome the conclusion of negotiations on the Canada -United States -
Mexico Agreement  (CUSMA/USMCA) and encourage early ratification and implementation.  
4.101.   Australia's concerns with discriminatory measures effecting the sale of wine in Canada are 
well known. Australia was pleased to reach an agreement with Canada, which will see the eliminati on 
of discriminatory measures impacting the sale of Australian wine in British Columbia. While we will 
continue to pursue our other concerns through the proceedings already underway, Australia remains 
open to resolving these concerns outside the WTO disput e settlement process if possible.  
4.102.   Australia takes a close interest in certain Canadian agricultural measures, specifically the 
supply -management system covering dairy, eggs and poultry. Reforms to these sectors are needed, WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  to not only ensure the long -term competitiveness of Canadian producers, but also as further 
demonstration of Canada's commitment to global agricultural trade reform.  
4.103.   Finally, we thank Canada for its replies to our written questions, and we will review them 
carefully.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.104.   The Russian delegation welcomes the 11th Trade Policy Review of Canada. We are pleased 
to be a part of the current monitoring exercise and fully support this important mechanism, which 
enables us to exchange views on the trade policy of the WTO Members.  
4.105.   We commend Canada on the continuous growth of its economy with a robust rate of 1.8% 
in 2018 accompanied by low inflation, a relatively stable federal government debt -to-GDP ratio and 
declining current account deficit. These trends demonstrate that Canada's fo cus on diversifying 
international trade and foreign direct investment has paid off.  
4.106.   Russia notes Canada's strong commitment to the multilateral trading system, the country's 
active participation in the regular work of the WTO committees, negotiations, disp ute settlement, 
monitoring and plurilateral initiatives. We hope that Canada -led «Ottawa Group» will contribute 
positively to the WTO reform process by paving the way for a more effective Organization fostering 
growth in the interests of all Members.  
4.107.   On th e bilateral track, over the years the Russian Federation and Canada have been 
developing broad cooperation in many areas, including mining, oil and gas, automotive components, 
aerospace and others. Unfortunately, since 2014 the Canadian authorities underto ok a series of 
steps aimed at cutting ties with Russia. Ottawa imposed sanctions against Russian individuals and 
legal entities more than 17 times (as of February 2018 visa and financial restrictions extend to 
160 Russian citizens and 80 organizations). Al l activity of the Intergovernmental Economic 
Commission, established in 1995, has been frozen.  
4.108.   We remain deeply concerned with these unilateral trade restrictive measures imposed by 
Canada against the Russian Federation due to non -economic reasons. In this  respect, we would like 
to express our regrets and disappointment with the escalation of anti -Russian political rhetoric of 
Ottawa, which brings nothing but harm to both sides including mutual economic, trade and 
investment losses. Trade between our countr ies has greatly suffered. As an illustration, in 
January -February 2018 bilateral trade has shrunk by 35,6 % compared with the corresponding 
period in 2017 – USD 157,7 million against USD 244,9 million. Obviously, this volume of trade is far 
behind the exis ting economic potential of the Russian -Canadian bilateral ties.  
4.109.   The Russian Federation reiterates its request to Canada to bring its measures in line with 
the Canadian obligations under the WTO Agreements and to lift all unfounded restrictive measures 
imme diately.  
4.110.   During this review, Russia has submitted a number of questions regarding some regional 
trade agreements that Canada is participating in, as well as the functioning of the "Ottawa Group". 
We thank the Canadian delegation for the answers provided.  
4.111.   In conclusion, we would like to thank you, Mr. Chairman, the delegation of Canada, the 
Secretariat and the Discussant, for the valuable work done during this TPR.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.112.   Canada is a key trading partner of Hong Kong, China (HKC). In 2018, Canada was our 4th 
largest trading partner in terms of trade in goods in the Americas (just after the United States, 
Mexico and Brazil). We have long been enjoying robust bilateral trade relations, strong social ties 
and great friendship with Canada.  
4.113.   The Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement signed between Hong Kong and 
Canada, which entered into force in September 2016, has added impetus to our bilateral investment 
flows by giving additional assurance to investors. As at the end of 2017, our b ilateral direct WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  investment increased by 22%, on a year -on-year basis, amounted to USD17.9 billion 
(CAD 23.3 billion). We look forward to further fostering our bilateral economic relations.  
4.114.   We welcome Canada's pledge in the Government Report on its commitme nt to international 
trade and the rules -based multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) at 
its core; and to prioritize pursuit of trade diversification and free trade to drive continued global 
economic growth, rather than turning  inward and retreating to protectionism.  
4.115.   Indeed, HKC shares Canada's concern about the rise in protectionism, which has taken the 
form of rising trade restrictive measures and unilateral actions that hinder and restrict international 
trade.  
4.116.   HKC looks forw ard to working with Canada together and championing global trade 
liberalisation, as both HKC and Canada are staunch supporters of the multilateral trading system, 
and we embrace the system as the cornerstone of our trade policies. With the common interests  we 
share, we look forward to continuously working closely with Canada on this important cause.  
4.117.   Services sectors continue to be the driving force of Canada's economy, accounting for 70% 
of its GDP. We are pleased to note that during the review period, Can ada has undertaken a number 
of trade facilitating measures. For example, the maximum percentage of foreign voting interests in 
Canadian air carriers has been increased; and all ships regardless of flag or ownership are now 
allowed to reposition their owned  or leased empty containers in Canada on a non -revenue basis 
without a coasting trade licence. We look forward to Canada's continued efforts to facilitate and 
liberalise its services trade.  
4.118.   We commend Canada's continuous efforts in rolling out new initiat ives to facilitate trade 
since the last Review, such as the Single Window Initiative.  We look forward to Canada's furthering 
of its trade facilitation efforts, which will lead to enhanced trade flows to the benefit of both Canada 
and its trading partners.  
4.119.   On tariff, we are pleased to see that 70.4% of its imports (2019) now enters into Canada 
duty free, compared with 67% in 2014, mainly as a result of the elimination of import duties under 
the expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and on certain imported ingredients 
used in the agri -food processing industry. Nevertheless, tariffs applied on agricultural products 
remain considerably higher than those on non -agricultural goods. In 2019, the average applied tariff 
rate on agricultural product s is 21.8%, compared with 2.5% on non -agricultural products. We 
encourage Canada to consider further liberalising the tariff lines, which will bring substantial benefits 
to Canadian consumers.  
4.120.   It is noted that Canada has increasingly deployed anti -dumping (AD) and countervailing 
duties (CVD) measures. For instance, there were 83 definitive AD measures and 28 CVD measures 
in place as of 31 December 2018, compared with 53 AD and 17 CVD measures reported in the last 
Review for December 2014. Besides, Canada im plemented in October 2018 preliminary global 
safeguard measures on seven steel products for 200 days, pending an inquiry by the Canadian 
International Trade Tribunal into whether more long -lasting safeguards are necessary, while the 
previous safeguard inqu iry dated back to as far as 2005.  
4.121.   We would urge Canada to exercise restraints and caution in initiating any AD/CVD 
investigations and other enforcement tools to guard against any abusive use, and seriously review 
the necessity of the trade remedy measures,  especially those that would remain in place for a long 
period of time.  
4.122.   Canada is an important trading partner of HKC. We look forward to further fostering the 
bilateral trade, economic and investment relations with Canada. I would like to thank Canada for  its 
replies to our written questions, which we will review carefully. HKC wishes Canada a very successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.123.   New Zealand welcomes the opportunity to participate in this eleventh Trade Policy Review 
of Canada.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.124.   New Zealand and Canada share a commitment to the multilateral rules -based trading 
system, and Canada is an active and constructive Member. In particular, we commend Canadian 
leadership to defend, modernise and strengthen the WTO including through its chairing of the Ottaw a 
Group on WTO Reform.  
4.125.   This is Canada's first review since the entry into force of the Comprehensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership, Canada's first FTA with New Zealand, and its accompanying 
Joint Declaration on Progressive and In clusive Trade between Canada, New Zealand and Chile.  
4.126.   Consistent with this Declaration, New Zealand and Canada have a common commitment to 
ensuring that the benefits of trade liberalisation are shared more widely amongst our communities, 
including women, i ndigenous peoples, rural communities and SMEs. Over the past year we have 
jointly participated in a range of activities to promote the benefits of inclusive trade at the WTO and 
other fora. We welcome our shared participation in Joint Statement initiatives  launched at Buenos 
Aires on women's economic empowerment, MSMEs, services domestic regulation, and investment 
facilitation as well as the e -commerce negotiations now under way.  
4.127.   On the multilateral agenda, New Zealand welcomes and values Canada's commitmen t to a 
successful conclusion of the fisheries subsidies negotiations by December 2019 as instructed by 
Ministers, and in order to fulfil SDG 14.6.  
4.128.   As Members committed to advancing trade liberalisation and its development, trade, and 
environmental benefits , we look forward to continuing to work together for a substantive package 
of outcomes, including an outcome on agriculture domestic support, from the 12th WTO Ministerial 
Conference in 2020.  
4.129.   It is nevertheless disappointing to see Canada's continuing pro tection of its dairy sector, 
particularly the implementation of new domestic dairy policies that have artificially reduced the 
prices of Canadian skim milk powder to below the prevailing world price by lowering production 
costs. This has dramatically incre ased Canadian skim milk powder production and exports, and 
effectively displaced dairy exports from other more competitive dairy exporters. The expansion of 
milk classes has received a significant amount of attention over the years, in previous trade polic y 
reviews as well as in the Committee on Agriculture. We anticipate and encourage satisfactory 
resolution of this issue once the United States -Mexico -Canada Agreement enters into force.  
4.130.   New Zealand's broader concerns relating to the supply management syst em and national 
treatment of certain imported products remain. As the Secretariat Report outlines, despite an 
estimated overall decline in Canada's PSE, the PSE for dairy products remain substantial and steady. 
Canada's PSE in aggregate averaged only 9% in  2015-17, however, commodities subject to supply 
management averaged 69%. It is well understood that such subsidisation can only have a negative 
distortionary effect on trade.  
4.131.   The differentiation in Canada's approach to its dairy sector, versus other agric ulture sectors, 
is also reflected in the fact that, according to the Secretariat's report, its average applied tariff rate 
on agricultural products is 21.8%, however, dairy products specifically attract an average applied 
tariff rate of 238.7%, with a peak  of 313.5% for butter.  
4.132.   On wine, we enjoy a collaborative relationship with Canada in such fora as the World Wine 
Trade Group, but it is disappointing that in a number of instances wine sales regulations in Canadian 
provinces do not appear to be consistent with Canada's WTO obligation to provide national treatment 
to imported wine.  
4.133.   We continue to appreciate Canada's close collaboration on trade and climate change and 
environment matters at the WTO, including its leadership in the Committee on Trade and 
Environment on trade and climate issues, engagement in the Environmental Goods Agreement 
negotiations, and as an active proponent on environmental services.  
4.134.   We commend Canada on its commitment to phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 
2025 and to undert ake a voluntary peer review of fossil fuel subsidies with Argentina, building on 
its G20 commitment. Consistent with Canada's leadership role on trade and climate change and 
environment matters, we hope Canada will support discussions on Fossil Fuel Subsid y Reform at the WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  WTO to address the market distortions and negative climate impacts caused by inefficient use of 
these resources.  
4.135.   We also look to Canada to lend its G7 weight to efforts, in the WTO and in other relevant 
fora, to address these trade distort ing and environmentally harmful subsidy practices.  
4.136.   We are encouraged by the direction of Canada's policies on inclusivity, trade and the 
environment, and indigenous agri -business, and appreciate the contribution Canada has made to 
WTO reform and global tra de rules generally.  
4.137.   New Zealand will continue to support Canada's leadership efforts on WTO reform through 
the "Ottawa Group".  
4.138.   Given Canada's overall progressive and inclusive trade agenda and ongoing dedication to 
the multilateral trading system, we enco urage Canada to undertake necessary reforms of its 
agriculture policies which aim to protect certain agriculture sectors, including reforming supply 
management.  
UKRAINE  
4.139.   Ukraine and Canada enjoy close bilateral relationship in the number of spheres; trade, 
economic and technical cooperation being the most relevant for the purpose of today's meeting. 
Historic friendship relations have developed through generations of Ukrain ian migration to Canada, 
strong people -to-people ties and the vibrant Ukrainian -Canadian community, and are based on the 
shared values and interests of mutually beneficial partnership. Nowadays Canada is one of Ukraine's 
staunch supporters, both from finan cial and political points of view. Since Ukraine's independence in 
1991, Canada has provided over USD 527 million in development assistance support to Ukraine. In 
this context Ukraine is grateful to Canada for its support in implementing necessary reforms that 
stimulate economic development, including those aimed at combating corruption and creating a 
more predictable business environment.  
4.140.   We highly estimate close bilateral ties between Ukraine and Canada supported by further 
trade liberalization provided under the Canada -Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA), that is in 
force since August 2017. The CUFTA provisions stipulate, in particular, the deepening of trade and 
economic cooperation, including trade in industrial and agricultural goods, intellectual pr operty 
protection and regulation of public procurement as priority areas for future engagement. In addition, 
Canada and Ukraine benefit from the foreign investment promotion and protection agreement, the 
convention on double taxation avoidance and the air transport agreement.  
4.141.   In 2018 trade and economic relations between Ukraine and Canada continued to show 
positive dynamics and increase in the volumes of bilateral trade. The total trade turnover between 
Ukraine and Canada amounted to more than half a billio n USD with common exports account for 
USD 165 million and import – USD 345 million. Trade in goods grew to more than USD 410 million 
while Ukraine's export to Canada increased by 55%.  
4.142.   The CUFTA set up favourable conditions that resulted in entering of new  products from 
Ukraine to Canadian market in 2018. To name a few among almost 300 new products at subheading 
level: copper and steel semi -finished products, ferroalloys, ferrotitanium, titanium and articles 
thereof, initiators of reactions, turbojet engine s with power under 5 000 kW; fish (dried or salted) 
etc. 
4.143.   The structure of Ukraine's goods export to Canada also traditionally covers tannic extracts; 
processed vegetable products; transport machinery; wood and wood products. The import of goods 
from Canada  to Ukraine includes oil and products of its distillation, mineral fuel; fish and seafood; 
pharmaceutical products.  
4.144.   Our trade in services covers wide range of sectors such as IT, transport, business services 
and tourism.  
4.145.   Ukraine is interested in deepening and strengthening bilateral cooperation and partnership 
with Canada in a way that contributes to a win win situation for both parties. We will assess progress WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  made and reaffirm our tactic goals at the Ukraine Reform Conference, which will take place in Tor onto 
this July.  
4.146.   Ukraine highly appreciates the partnership cooperation with Canada across the WTO bodies 
on agriculture, domestic regulation, e -commerce and others. Canada's support of small and medium 
businesses exports potential building as well as wome n participation in international trade and 
overall promotion of e -commerce gains more and more proponents among Members.  
4.147.   Being strongly committed to the rule -based multilateral trading system, Ukraine notes the 
efforts of Canada in strengthening internatio nal trade in goods and services and its comprehensive 
contribution to further development of the WTO system.  
4.148.   Within this TPR exercise Ukraine has submitted number of specific questions on the following 
topics: trade facilitation; intellectual property; inv estment regime; regulations relating to pesticide 
residues; maintaining non -ad valorem duties for agricultural products etc.  
4.149.   We would like to express gratitude for the responses, which we are reviewing thoroughly.  
4.150.   In conclusion, I would like to express ou r deep appreciation to the delegation of Canada and 
especially to the team of the Mission in Geneva for their hard work in preparing for this TPR.  
4.151.   We wish Canada successful TPR and look forward to further strengthening our bilateral 
relations.  
JAPAN  
4.152.   Japan praises Canada for its historical contributions to upholding and strengthening the 
multilateral trading system since the establishment of the GATT. Japan also acknowledges Canada's 
dedicated and ongoing efforts to reform the WTO.  
4.153.   In regard to its trade pol icy, we note that, by launching a new Export Diversification Strategy 
to support exports by SMEs and promote gender equality, Canada is contributing to making global 
trade more inclusive.  
4.154.   In this review period, Canada accepted the TFA and the ITA expansion . Additionally, Canada 
regularly meets its notification requirements in the WTO, and —together with the EU, Japan, the U.S. 
and other Members — has co -sponsored the transparency and notification proposal. We appreciate 
these positive engagements on the part  of Canada in our collective efforts to improve the functioning 
of the WTO.  
4.155.   As for the investment framework, we have a keen interest in the contents of the Guidelines 
on the National Security Review of Investments in 2016. We appreciate the answer provide d by 
Canada to our written question in advance of today's review. We will continue to pay attention to 
how the review is conducted under the new guidelines, particularly focusing on the transparency of 
the review standards.  
4.156.   Furthermore, as a co -convener o f the Joint Statement Initiative on electronic commerce, 
Japan appreciates Canada's significant contribution to the ongoing negotiations, and expects that 
we can make substantive progress towards MC12.   
4.157.   Apart from its work in the WTO, Canada concluded thr ee new FTAs including the CPTPP and 
updated some of its existing FTAs during this review period. We expect that we can achieve a 
mutually beneficial trade regime by strengthening economic partnerships, while ensuring that all 
measures are consistent with t he WTO obligations.  
4.158.   There are, however, areas that can be improved on. Particularly, as indicated in the report 
by the Secretariat, when the Federal Government levies excise taxes on certain products, lower or 
zero tax rates are applied to domestic brewer s and to wine made entirely from Canadian -grown 
agricultural produce. We expect Canada to adopt non -discriminatory measures that are consistent 
with its commitment to the WTO agreement. In addition to the issue of excise taxes, in Canada, the 
provincial an d territorial Liquor Control Authorities are exclusively engaged in retail sale, importation, WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  and inter -provincial/territorial trade in alcoholic beverages. Although Canada has fulfilled its 
obligation to provide notifications on state trading enterprises,  we encourage Canada to further open 
up its alcohol market in order to facilitate a fair and competitive environment that would also allow 
more Canadian consumers to enjoy Japanese sake.  
4.159.   Japan would like to touch upon Canada's forestry policies. We are par ticularly concerned by 
export restriction measures on logs from British Colombia. We would like to recall that the GATT 
requires general elimination of quantitative restrictions. Additionally, we are afraid that Canada's 
stumpage program could lead to dump ing of wood products exported from Canada. We expect 
Canada to refrain from taking excessive measures to protect its forestry industry.  
4.160.   In conclusion, we wish Canada a successful and productive TPR, and look forward to hearing 
of further progress regarding  its trade and investment policies at its next TPR.  
BRAZIL  
4.161.   As pointed out by the Secretariat's report, Canada's trade regime is significantly open. 
Imports and exports combined represent 65% of Canada's GDP and the average MFN tariff is 6.1%. 
Since the las t Trade Policy Review in 2014, there was a noticeable increase in MFN duty -free tariff 
lines from 67.0% to 70.4%, which reflected the ITA expansion and some unilateral tariff elimination 
on products used in the agri -food processing industry.  
4.162.   Nevertheless, the overall picture reveals inconsistencies, as some sectors in Canada are far 
from enjoying a liberal regime. There is still a dualism in Canadian agriculture: a very competitive 
exporting sector coexisting with supply -managed industries. A complete array  of protection 
instruments also remains in place: tariff -rate quotas, tariff escalation, tariff peaks, non -ad valorem 
tariffs, special safeguards, production quotas, and export subsidies.  
4.163.   We praise Canada for its commitment to eliminate the remaining export subsidies by the 
end of 2020, in accordance to the Nairobi Ministerial Decision, but we believe that more can be done. 
It is a matter of transparency and balance. For the period under review, agricultural tariff were 
21.8% on average, compared to 2. 5% for non -agricultural goods. This is almost ten times higher.  
4.164.   Turning to the bilateral relations between Brazil and Canada the bilateral trade volume had 
a significant increase of more than 20% in 2018. Brazilian exports to Canada increased 23.4%, 
wherea s imports from Canada increased 27.9%. Bilateral Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is also 
significant. Canada is one of the main destinations for Brazilian investments. In 2018, Brazil had a 
stock of FDI in Canada of over USD 20 billion, making it the seven th largest investor in Canada. 
Large parts of these investments refer to the mining sector. In the opposite direction, Canada had 
a stock of FDI in Brazil that reached USD 15 billion in 2018.  
4.165.   Another welcome development in our bilateral relations during t he period under review is 
the start of the Mercosur -Canada FTA in March 2018. There have been five rounds of negotiations 
so far, involving more than 20 negotiating groups. Next week, in Montevideo, we should conclude 
negotiations on E -Commerce, SPS, Dispu te Settlement and Environmental Issues.  
4.166.   This goes to show that Brazil and Canada have a lot in common, despite the differences in 
terms of development levels. Not only do Brazil and Canada have vast territories, diverse population, 
and abundant natural res ources, but also share many common goals and interests - both count on 
free and open trade to expand and provide support for their economies, both are committed 
members of this organization and both attach great value to the rules -based multilateral tradin g 
system. As members of the Ottawa Group, we are doing our best to find suitable solutions to the 
difficult problems this Organization is facing.  
4.167.   In conclusion, let me just point out that Brazil has sent some additional questions to Canada 
and that, to our  satisfaction, we note that the first questions were already replied. We wish a 
successful Trade Policy Review to Canada.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  INDIA  
4.168.   During the period under review from 2015 -18, the GDP of Canada grew at a moderate rate 
with a growth rate of 3% in 2017 which moderated to 1% in 2018. The Canadian economy also 
witnessed low inflation, a stable debt to GDP ratio, decline in current account deficit and the lowest 
rates of unemployment in the last few decades. The per capita GDP of Canada also increased to 
USD 46,182 in 2018. Canada is a diversified economy with trade amounting to almost 65% of the 
GDP.  
4.169.   The Canadian delegation at Geneva, led by Ambassador Stephen De Boer, has been an 
effective advocate for WTO reform, ably articulating the position of the middle gr ounders, as a leader 
on the issue of gender and trade and on the work related to multilateral fisheries subsidy 
negotiations.  
4.170.   India and Canada share a multi -faceted relationship which is underpinned by shared values 
of democracy and pluralism. Canada is al so home to a large Indian diaspora of around 1.6 million 
who are contributing to the socio -economic development of the country. In addition, 1,24,000 Indian 
students are currently studying in Canadian colleges.   
4.171.   Economic and trade relations are an importa nt pillar of our bilateral relations. Trade between 
both countries stood at USD 6.34 billion in 2018 -19. There is considerable potential to expand trade 
in products like iron and steel, pharmaceuticals, garments, marine products, electrical machinery, 
chem icals, oil and petroleum products. Investment from Canada into India has also grown in sectors 
like information technology, services, food processing, IT and pharmaceuticals. India is also 
becoming an attractive destination for Canadian investments, includ ing from pension funds. A large 
number of Indian companies are also present in Canada in areas of banking, automobiles and 
information technology.  
4.172.   We have posed a large number of questions to Canada as part of this TPR and are thankful 
for the responses. My authorities would be reviewing the responses received. Let me, however, 
underline some areas of particular concern which impede the potential of our trade and economic 
ties.  
4.173.   There is considerable potential to strengthen trade in services between both c ountries. 
However, the existing Temporary Foreign Workers Programme or Global Skills Strategy of Canada 
is unable to cater to the requirements of IT professionals and other services providers from India. 
Addressing issues relating to mobility of skilled pr ofessionals from India to Canada, including the 
procedural delays in visa processing, and removing other restrictions in the temporary foreign 
workers programme will be of mutual benefit. The new Labour Market Impact Assessment imposes 
onerous burdens on e mployers, thereby affecting skilled labour mobility from India to Canada.   
4.174.   On trade in goods, we have regularly highlighted issues related to export of Indian 
agricultural products including fruits and vegetables which face challenges due to burdensome 
requirements of testing, inspection and SPS measures. The complex regulatory procedures for 
export of fish products from India to Canada are also impacting our trade in this area.  
4.175.   Currently, the Canadian authorities do not recognise the certification proced ure of Indian 
organic products including poultry and meat products. India has been seeking equivalence for 
organic standards of our National Programme for Organic Production with Canada so that the 
certification procedures are simplified. We hope Canada wi ll look into all these issues and 
meaningfully address them at the earliest for enhanced trade and mutual benefit.  
4.176.   Both countries are also negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement which 
covers trade in goods, services and all areas of ou r economic cooperation and a bilateral investment 
agreement. Several rounds have been held and early conclusion of the foreign investment promotion 
and protection agreement and CEPA would give a fillip to our trade and economic ties.  
4.177.   To conclude, India lo oks forward to working closely with the authorities of Canada for further 
expanding and harnessing the potential of our trade and investment ties. We wish the delegation of 
Canada a productive and successful TPR.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  THAILAND  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.178.   ASEAN and Cana da have expanding trade and investment relations with total merchandise 
trade amounting to nearly USD 18 billion in 2017, recording an increase by 10% from the previous 
year. In 2017 Canada was ranked as ASEAN's ninth largest trading partner. The ITC analy sis1 
indicates that products with the greatest export potential from ASEAN to Canada are telephone sets 
and other voice/image transmission apparatus, with the potential to realise additional exports of 
about USD 489 million in this sector. ASEAN anticipates co ntinued positive trade relations with 
Canada so as to achieve and leverage this potential towards its development efforts.  
4.179.   ASEAN welcomes Canada's policy on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) resulting in substantial 
direct investment abroad equivalent to 50%  of its GDP in 2017. In the same light, ASEAN notes with 
pleasure the improvements made by Canada in facilitating foreign investment. The one stop shop 
for foreign investments as well as elimination of formal approval procedures are welcome steps that 
should increase opportunities for foreign investments in Canada. In addition, ASEAN is pleased to 
note that FDI inflows from Canada to ASEAN amounted to USD 9.4 billion in 2017.  
4.180.   ASEAN welcomes the completion of the Joint Feasibility Study for an ASEAN -Canada F TA 
which showed positive impact on trade and investment  for both sides.  
4.181.   ASEAN also welcomes the progress made in the implementation of the 2016 -2020 Work Plan 
of the ASEAN -Canada Joint Declaration on Trade and Investment.  
4.182.   To further build on this strong f oundation, regular ASEAN -Canada Annual Trade Policy 
Dialogues continue to take place. Exchanging lessons learnt from ASEAN and Canada's FTAs 
negotiations with other dialogue partners will be useful for strengthening trade relations.  
4.183.   ASEAN notes with apprec iation the various initiatives supported by Canada in collaboration 
with relevant ASEAN sectoral bodies, especially in the area of developing micro, small and medium 
enterprises (MSMEs). We believe that these initiatives will provide technical assistance a nd help build 
capacity on trade and investment in the region.   
4.184.   ASEAN expresses its appreciation for Canada's ongoing support through technical assistance 
to the region's efforts in promoting inclusive and innovation -led growth. ASEAN is also appreciative 
of the fact that Canada is an active and important member of the WTO, constructively participating 
in all areas of negotiations and implementation of outcomes.  
4.185.   ASEAN looks forward to its continued positive engagement with Canada both to strengthen 
the expanding bilateral relations as well as the multilateral trading system.  
4.186.   Finally, we would like to express our gratitude to Ambassador Stephen DE BOER and his 
delegation for their constructive engagement with the ASEAN delegations here in Geneva. We also 
wish to extend our special thanks to Ambassador DE BOER for being one of distinguished panellists 
at the WTO ASEAN Regional Seminar on the WTO Reform held in March this year in Bangkok.  
THAILAND  
4.187.   Thailand and Canada have maintained strong, wide ranging, and  mutually beneficial 
economic relations. We are pleased to highlight that our bilateral trade in 2018 totalled 
USD 2.5 billion, expanding by 15% from 2017. Canada is Thailand's third largest trading partner in 
the Americas while Thailand is Canada's second  largest trading partner in ASEAN. Thailand hopes 
that our bilateral trade will continue to grow to further strengthen our economic relations.  
4.188.   We congratulate Canada on its overall positive economic performance since 2016. Canada's 
strategy to diversify it s international trade and FDI will be of much interest to many of us. We are 
pleased to note that FDI flows from Thailand to Canada amounted to CAD 56 million in 2018. Further, 
we note that Canada stepped up efforts to improve its FDI attractiveness. Howev er, most long -
                                                
 1 This information is sourced from ITC website : https://exportpotential.intracen.org/#/products/tree -
map?fromMarker=r&exporter=1&toMarker=j&market=124&whatMarker=k . WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  standing foreign investment restrictions remain in place. We, therefore, encourage Canada to 
consider further liberalization.  
4.189.   Canada has long been a key and invaluable contributor to the WTO. Thailand commends 
Canada for its contributions and  commitment to WTO reform. As Cairns Group Members, Thailand 
has close working relationship with Canada in agriculture negotiations with a shared view of pushing 
for successful reforms in agriculture. We appreciate Canada's proactive contributions in the o ngoing 
negotiations with a view to achieving outcomes in this crucial area by MC12.  
4.190.   In conclusion, we wish Canada every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.191.   Indonesia associates itself with the ASEAN statement made previously by Thailand.  
4.192.   This TP R is an important platform for Indonesia to look into avenues in improving the 
bilateral trade relation with Canada. This process has allowed Indonesia to learn much, in the ways 
the Canadian government formulates programs and policies to manage trade flow s. Additionally, 
this TPR has assisted Indonesia in further understanding how WTO consistent trade and trade -related 
policies are being implemented in Canada – be it at the national level, as well as at the sub -national 
levels.  
4.193.   By the numbers, Indonesia an d Canada are increasingly engaging in more trade activities, 
especially since 2016 when we started to inhibit a positive yearly growth in bilateral trade. The figure 
has since been increasing from a yearly growth of 12.26% (between 2016 -2017) to 15.99% in the 
following year (between 2017 -2018). This positive trade growth looks even more promising at the 
current rate of trade activities, where annual growth last March 2019 was recorded at 8.72%, and 
with more months to go until the end of 2019.  
4.194.   This positive  development is, in itself, a tribute to our trust building engagements, at various 
fronts, and including at the WTO. The WTO helps in ensuring that the increasing bilateral trade flow 
remains healthy, and conducted with minimum unnecessary barriers.  
4.195.   Indon esia would like to point out that the USD 2.7 billion bilateral trade that is currently on 
the table is less than 1% of Indonesia's and less than 1% of Canada's total trade. We hope to see 
that the rising level of Canadian investment into Indonesia (which in 2018 sits at USD 3.2 billion) in 
which Indonesia has become Canada's second largest investment destination in Southeast Asia, will 
further complement the effort to raise bilateral trade.  
4.196.   Hence, overall, Indonesia sees room for improvement in our bilater al trade. Much discussions 
leading up to this TPR meeting has provided insights into this joint effort for trade improvement.  
4.197.   we have forwarded our inquiries in our written questions that we have submitted. And we 
convey appreciation to the Canadian delega tion for the responses we have received to our advanced 
written questions, amongst them:  
• on programs and regulations related to Canada's commitment to eliminate the remaining 
subsidies on dairy products;  
• on the government -run industrial and sector -specific  incentive programs for international 
collaboration and R&D (research and development), including the GGI program (Going 
Global Innovation), CanExport, GOA (Global Opportunities Associations), CGI (Going Global 
Innovation), and ICCI (Invest Canada -Communit y Initiates) – and on how these programs 
are non -trade -distorting;  
• on the AgriMarketing program, and on how the program is not considered trade -distorting;  
• on the criteria and factors in categorizing a business as SME;  
• on the highly regulated tobacco marke t and industry;  
• on the qualifications for the General Preferential Tariff (GPT) treatment entitlement; and  
• on the empirical basis or factor behind categorizing some WTO members as non -developing, 
despite its status as developing members at the WTO.  
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  4.198.   We hav e submitted some follow up questions, some of them seeking clarification and 
elaboration on the responses to the advanced written questions. We look forward to receiving 
additional answers to these questions.  
4.199.   In conclusion, my delegation wishes Her Excelle ncy Ms. Kendal Hembroff and her 
Ottawa -based delegation, success in the remaining phase of this TPR, and a safe trip home.  
HONDURAS  
4.200.   Nuestros países desde hace décadas cuentan con una sólida relación, lo cual nos ha 
permitido compartir visiones sobre la construcción de un orden mundial comercial basado en normas 
y en la aspiración a lograr un comercio justo, libre, transparente, equitat ivo y previsible, que refleje 
el equilibrio apropiado entre derechos y obligaciones y que fomente la prosperidad para nuestros 
connacionales.  
4.201.   Canadá ha desempeñado un papel muy constructivo en Honduras, mostrando siempre su 
compromiso con el desarrollo de mocrático, el fortalecimiento del programa de cooperación para el 
desarrollo y la profundización de los vínculos comerciales, de inversión y de otra índole.  
4.202.   En ese orden de ideas, Canadá ha realizado contribuciones importantes para financiar 
proyectos en n uestro país en distintitos campos, destacando aquellos que se han orientado a adoptar 
enfoques basados en la ciencia para reglamentar el comercio de productos agroalimentarios y para 
fortalecer las capacidades a fin de adoptar y cumplir las normas convenid as. 
4.203.   Tal como lo indican los informes presentados, los Acuerdos de Libre Comercio bilaterales y 
regionales han representado un instrumento clave para nuestros países en los esfuerzos en favor de 
la diversificación del comercio, razón por la cual, desde el a ño 2014 nuestra relación comercial 
bilateral, se rige por el Tratado de Libre Comercio, el cual ha permitido establecer una relación más 
robusta en los distintos ámbitos de aplicación del mismo.  
4.204.   Para el 2017, el comercio bilateral entre Canadá y Honduras alcanzó más de los 88 millones 
de dólares, donde las exportaciones de Honduras fueron alrededor de USD 40 millones en café, 
frutas y hortalizas entre otros, e importamos del Canadá alrededor de USD 48 millones en carne y 
despojos comestibles, preparaciones  de hortalizas y preparaciones a base de cereales.  
4.205.   La inversión extranjera directa de Canadá es prominente en Honduras en la fabricación de 
prendas de vestir y en minería.  
4.206.   En cuanto a los informes objeto de revisión, notamos con satisfacción que la econom ía 
canadiense experimentó un fuerte crecimiento durante la segunda mitad del período examinado y 
en 2017 creció un 3,0%, lo que represento el porcentaje más alto desde 2011 y el ritmo más rápido, 
entre los países del G -7, lo cual es remarcable.  
4.207.   En 2017, al  igual que en 2015 y 2016, el Canadá ocupó el 10º lugar entre las principales 
economías del mundo y según el Fondo Monetario Internacional (FMI), la relación deuda neta/PIB 
del Canadá es la más baja entre los países del G -7, menos de un tercio del promedio  de esos países.  
4.208.   Observamos que de la adopción y puesta en vigencia de políticas públicas canadienses, se 
deprende un compromiso de mantener un régimen de propiedad intelectual sólido y eficaz, que 
favorece la innovación, la inversión y el crecimiento econ ómico y resaltamos la recién puesta en 
marcha de la estrategia en materia de propiedad intelectual.  
4.209.   Al mismo tiempo, notamos la reciente creación de la Oficina de Inversiones en el Canadá, 
así como la adopción de la nueva política sobre la Visión del Turis mo. 
4.210.   Actualmente el Canadá es uno de los principales productores mundiales de diversos recursos 
naturales, como madera, petróleo, gas, minerales y menas y es un líder mundial en calidad de los 
alimentos, innovación y producción agropecuaria ecológica y reco nocemos su liderazgo en pos de la 
modernización de la OMC por medio de las iniciativas del Grupo de Ottawa.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.211.   Adicionalmente, notamos que ostenta el duodécimo lugar entre los principales exportadores 
e importadores de mercancías, el décimo octavo lugar entre  los principales exportadores de servicios 
comerciales, el décimo cuarto entre los principales importadores de ese tipo de servicios y ocupa el 
vigésimo segundo puesto en el ranking Doing Business y se encuentra entre los países con menos 
corrupción del mu ndo. 
4.212.   Finalmente, Honduras felicita a Canadá por sus destacados e importantes logros durante el 
período de examen y les deseamos siempre el mayor de los éxitos.  
CHINA  
4.213.   We note that after two years of weak economic growth, the Canadian economy has achieved 
strong growth in the second half of 2016 and 2017. During the period under review, Canada had 
seen a relatively low inflation rate, and a stable federal government debt -to-GDP ratio, with its 
current account deficit declining.  
4.214.   As an original GATT contracting  party and founding member of the WTO, Canada is an 
important player in international trade and has been actively participated in the regular work of the 
WTO and WTO reforms, while joining in discussions on e -commerce, investment facilitation and 
SMEs.  
4.215.   The multilateral trading system is currently facing unprecedented challenges. As emphasized 
in its Government statement, Canada will support the multilateral trading system with the WTO at 
its core, as such system is playing a vital role in lifting the econom ic level of all Members and 
maintaining the world prosperity and stability. We hope that Canada can continue to play such role 
in the WTO.  
4.216.   China is the second largest trading partner of Canada. We are important investment 
destinations of each other. During  the period of review, our bilateral trade experienced fast growth. 
According to statistics on the Chinese side, our bilateral trade in goods registered USD 63.54 billion 
in 2018, a year -on-year growth of 22.7%, bilateral trade in services grew rapidly and  reached 
USD 25.28 billion in 2018.  
4.217.   By the end of 2018, China's direct investment in Canada was about USD 11.92 billion and 
Canada's investment in China amounted to USD 10.72 billion.   
4.218.   Meanwhile, the total trade volume between China and Canada only accou nted for 1.2% of 
China's total foreign trade and 8.1% of Canada's total foreign trade respectively. We believe that 
there is huge potential for both sides to improve trade relations.  
4.219.   With respect to Canada's trade policies and measures, we have several con cerns.  
4.220.   First, the business environment of Canada. Since the last Review, Canada's restrictions on 
foreign investment have persisted and national security review has been generally used. China 
expects Canada to relax its restrictions on foreign investment a nd apply national security review 
clauses in a prudent way, and treat investors from all members including China equally, properly 
addressing issues in the bilateral investment through dialogues.  
4.221.   Second, the impact of bilateral and regional economic and tr ade arrangements. China is 
closely analysing the implications of the Canada -EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement 
(CETA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and 
the US -Mexico -Canada Agreement (USMCA).  China hopes that the implementation of these 
agreements will not impede Canada's existing bilateral economic and trade cooperation with other 
trading partners.  
4.222.   Third, trade remedy measures. Canada remains an active user of trade remedies. We hope 
that Can ada can adopt trade remedy measures with restraint and address trade frictions through 
dialogues and negotiations.  
4.223.   In addition, China is also concerned about Canada's latest policies in agriculture, energy, 
aviation and intellectual property protection.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.224.   China attaches great importance to the development of bilateral relations with Canada. And 
China hopes that Canada would also value its economic and trade cooperation with China.  
4.225.   China is willing to work together with other members to safeguard the multilateral trading 
system with the WTO at its core, support necessary reforms of the WTO to address the crisis faced 
by the WTO, while responding to the development demand, and promoting an open world economy.  
4.226.   I would like to conclude by expressing my ap preciation to the Canadian delegation for its 
responses to our questions. We will study these replies carefully. Finally, I would wish this policy 
Review a complete success.  
ARGENTINA  
4.227.   La Argentina reconoce el esfuerzo realizado por Canadá durante el periodo examinado para 
hacer frente a la ralentización del crecimiento económico por medio de inversiones estratégicas en 
infraestructura física y social, innovación, ciencia e investigación, y competencias y formación.  
4.228.   Para la Argentina resulta encomiable  que Canadá haya alcanzado un elevado nivel de vida 
para su población con un PIB per cápita en términos nominales de USD 46.182 en 2018.  
4.229.   Argentina felicita a Canadá por la función que ha desempeñado en ayudar a construir un 
orden mundial basado en el impe rio de la ley y en la aspiración a un comercio libre, inclusivo y más 
abierto, con la finalidad de conseguir que los beneficios del comercio sean compartidos por todos. 
Asimismo, lo congratula por su empeño en defender un comercio equitativo y previsible m ediante el 
sistema multilateral de comercio basado en reglas, con la OMC como centro, principalmente frente 
al desafío que presenta un escenario de auge de medidas comerciales unilaterales restrictivas y 
aumento del proteccionismo.  
4.230.   Argentina coincide con Canadá en que la OMC es una institución indispensable para 
mantener en pie el sistema multilateral de comercio, que sirve de foro para abrir los mercados y 
liberalizar el comercio, crear normas que establezcan un entorno previsible en el que operar, 
foment ar la transparencia, debatir las cuestiones que se plantean y dirimir las diferencias cuando 
surgen.  
4.231.   En este sentido, nuestro país valora positivamente la participación activa con la que Canadá 
ha contribuido en la labor ordinaria de los Comités de la OMC,  las negociaciones, la solución de 
diferencias, el ejercicio de vigilancia y las iniciativas plurilaterales.  
4.232.   En particular, resulta destacable la función de liderazgo de Canadá, y Argentina celebra las 
iniciativas relacionadas con el comercio y el género.  Las mismas entendemos, están en consonancia 
con la Declaración de Buenos Aires sobre el Comercio y el Empoderamiento de las Mujeres – de la 
11º Conferencia Ministerial. Así como su compromiso con la modernización y reforma de la OMC por 
medio de la confor mación del Grupo de Ottawa.   
4.233.   Celebramos el hecho de que haya notificado a la OMC su aceptación del Acuerdo sobre 
Facilitación del Comercio (AFC) en 2016. Además, ha completado los procedimientos y aplicado los 
compromisos contraídos en el marco de la ampl iación del Acuerdo sobre Tecnología de la Información 
(ATI), y ha cumplido con regularidad sus obligaciones de notificación durante el período.  
4.234.   Queremos asimismo destacar el rol que Canadá y su delegación en Ginebra han 
desempeñado en las negociaciones so bre los Subsidios a la Pesca, con miras a alcanzar un acuerdo 
para prohibir ciertas formas de subvenciones a la pesca que contribuyen a la sobrecapacidad y la 
sobrepesca y a eliminar aquellas que contribuyen a la pesca ilegal, no declara y no reglamentada.   
4.235.   Alentamos a Canadá por los esfuerzos realizados con el fin de diversificar su comercio, y los 
ALC bilaterales y regionales celebrados durante el período de examen. Destacar que, durante el 
mismo, Canadá y Argentina en el marco del relacionamiento externo  del Mercosur, iniciaron 
negociaciones en 2018 tendientes a la conclusión de un ALC global.   WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.236.   En cuanto a la relación bilateral entre Argentina y Canadá, nuestro país cuenta con un acceso 
al mercado canadiense libre de aranceles para aproximadamente el 94%  de los productos 
exportados a ese mercado.  
4.237.   Canadá es el único país del "USMCA" con el que nuestro país mantiene un superávit, debido 
a las exportaciones de minerales (oro y plata) extraídos por las empresas mineras canadienses desde 
territorio argentino ( aproximadamente 80% del total de las exportaciones).  
4.238.   Durante 2018 el superávit comercial bilateral experimentó una evolución positiva para la 
Argentina alcanzando los USD 907,4 millones (+35% en comparación con 2017).  
4.239.   Los principales productos exportados a Canadá en 2018 fueron: oro en bruto, vinos, biodiésel 
y mezclas, los demás aceros aleados en lingotes o demás formas primarias y plata en bruto, mientras 
que los principales productos importados desde Canadá en 2018 fueron Aviones de peso en vacío 
mayor a 15.000 kg, partes de bombas para líquidos, medicamentos, cloruro de potasio y bobinas de 
papel para uso gráfico.   
4.240.   Finalizando, y al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar elementos de juicio y consideracione s sobre las políticas y prácticas comerciales de 
Canadá, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos 
sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades canadienses la exitosa conclusión del presente Examen.  
REPÚBLICA  DOMINICANA  
4.241.   Para la República Dominicana, Canadá es un importante socio comercial, las exportaciones 
de Canadá a RD en el 2018 fueron de aproximadamente USD 169.46 millones, y los principales 
productos fueron pescados y crustáceos, cereales, aceites, entre otr os. Las exportaciones de 
República Dominicana a Canadá en el mismo año fueron de USD 775.29 millones, y los principales 
productos fueron oro, plata, cigarros, cacao, productos farmacéuticos, textiles, entre otros. Canadá 
ocupa el segundo lugar como país de  origen en los flujos de inversión extranjera en República 
Dominicana, con un total de USD 329.3 millones en el 2018, según cifras del trademap y del Banco 
Central de la República Dominicana.  
4.242.   Deseamos felicitar a Canadá por el buen desempeño de su economía , ya que el informe de 
la Secretaría indica que durante el período objeto de examen (2015 -2018), la economía canadiense 
se caracterizó por un crecimiento moderado del PIB, una inflación baja, y una relación relativamente 
estable entre la deuda del Gobierno  federal y el PIB. En este sentido, luego de registrar un débil 
crecimiento en 2015 y 2016, debido a la disminución de los precios del petróleo, Canadá registró 
una fuerte expansión a partir de la segunda mitad de 2016 y durante 2017, siendo el crecimiento  
de un 3% en el 2017, a medida que la economía iba respondiendo a las políticas monetarias y 
fiscales de estímulo. El crecimiento se mantuvo, en 1,8% en 2018, debido a la menor contribución 
del consumo de los hogares y de la inversión empresarial.  
4.243.   Vemos co n satisfacción que el Canadá cuenta con una economía diversificada, y el sector de 
los servicios representó aproximadamente un 70% del PIB durante el período objeto de examen. Al 
mismo tiempo, el Canadá es uno de los principales productores mundiales de di versos recursos 
naturales, como madera, petróleo, gas, y minerales.   
4.244.   Por otro lado, el informe indica que el Canadá sigue dependiendo considerablemente del 
mercado de los Estados Unidos, aunque, durante el período objeto de examen, aumentó el comercio 
bidireccional con China y México.  
4.245.   Vemos con satisfacción que Canadá notificó a la OMC su aceptación del Acuerdo sobre 
Facilitación del Comercio (AFC) el 16 de diciembre de 2016. Además, ha completado los 
procedimientos y aplicado los compromisos contraídos en  el marco de la ampliación del Acuerdo 
sobre Tecnología de la Información (ATI), y ha cumplido con regularidad sus obligaciones de 
notificación durante el período.  
4.246.   En el área de facilitación del comercio, vemos que durante el período objeto de examen no 
se han registrado cambios significativos en la Ley de Aduanas, pero en julio del 2015 se introdujeron 
las normas relativas a las prescripciones en materia de declaración del programa de Información WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  Comercial Anticipada (ACI), que obliga a los clientes comer ciales a presentar a los funcionarios del 
Organismo de Servicios Fronterizos del Canadá (CBSA) la información electrónica previa a la llegada. 
También, el CBSA ha puesto en marcha otras dos iniciativas para facilitar el comercio, a saber, la 
Iniciativa de la Ventanilla Única y la Fase 1 del proyecto de Gestión de la Fijación de Derechos y de 
los Ingresos del CBSA (CARM).  
4.247.   Al igual que en el examen anterior, vemos con preocupación que Canadá sigue siendo un 
usuario activo de medidas comerciales correctivas. Entre 2015 y 2018 se iniciaron 45 investigaciones 
antidumping y se adoptaron 33 medidas, en comparación con 24 medidas adoptadas entre 2011 y 
2014. La legislación sobre medidas comerciales correctivas del Canadá se modificó durante el 
período examinado. Un o de los principales cambios ha sido la introducción de legislación sobre 
investigaciones relativas a la elusión para determinar si las mercancías se importan con el fin 
específico de eludir derechos antidumping o compensatorios vigentes. También se introd ujeron 
procedimientos sobre el alcance para establecer si un producto concreto está comprendido en el 
ámbito de aplicación de una medida antidumping y/o compensatoria en vigor. En este sentido, 
exhortamos a las autoridades de Canadá a ejercer con precaució n su derecho a la aplicación de estas 
medidas, a los fines de no afectar indebidamente las exportaciones de los países en desarrollo.   
4.248.   También nos llama la atención en el sector agrícola, que los principales programas y servicios 
de apoyo se aplican a tra vés de un marco conjunto de políticas federales y provinciales/territoriales 
de cinco años de duración. El 1º de abril de 2018, el Acuerdo Marco Growing Forward 2 (GF2) fue 
sustituido por la Asociación Agrícola Canadiense. En el marco de la Asociación se p revén unos gastos 
en programas y actividades federales de CAD 1.000 millones durante el actual período de cinco años. 
También se prevé un gasto de CAD 2.000 millones en programas y actividades de costos compartidos 
diseñados y puestos en práctica por las a utoridades provinciales y territoriales. Nos causa 
preocupación este alto nivel de ayuda en el sector agrícola, ya que las mismas pueden causar 
distorsiones en el mercado internacional.  
4.249.   Para terminar, solo nos queda felicitar nuevamente a Canadá y desearle  éxitos en este 
Examen de política comercial y en el futuro.  
ECUADOR  
4.250.   Mi delegación atiende con gran interés este undécimo Examen de políticas comerciales dada 
la relevancia que tiene para Ecuador las relaciones bilaterales que mantiene y busca fortalecer con 
Canadá.  
4.251.   Tras los reportes presentados, mi delegación mira con ate nción la evolución de la economía 
canadiense, que durante el periodo objeto del examen se traduce en un crecimiento moderado del 
PIB y una alta diversificación. Merece destacarse el elevado nivel de vida que Canadá ha alcanzado 
para su población, que en té rminos nominales figura en un PIB per cápita de USD 46.182 en 2018.  
4.252.   El comercio exterior y de manera particular, las exportaciones de bienes se caracterizan por 
no ser solo productos primarios, sino también incorpora productos intermedios y de alto valor 
añadido. Aspectos que hacen parte de una de las prioridades básicas formuladas en el Plan Anual 
del Ministerio de Asuntos Mundiales del Canadá: cual es diversificar el comercio internacional y la 
inversión extranjera directa, con miras a generar más oportun idades económicas. En esta línea, mi 
delegación mira con interés el enfoque inclusivo que establece dicho plan, en la medida que está 
centrado en la incorporación de la transparencia, los derechos laborales, el medio ambiente, las 
pequeñas y medianas empre sas, las cuestiones de género y las poblaciones indígenas en los 
acuerdos sobre comercio e inversión.  
4.253.   Pese a lo expuesto, el alto grado de concentración de sus exportaciones, destinadas en más 
del 70% a un solo mercado, el de los Estados Unidos de América , evidencia la alta vulnerabilidad de 
la economía frente a factores externos. Sería conveniente una mayor diversificación y búsqueda de 
nuevos mercados.  
4.254.   En lo concerniente a las políticas y prácticas comerciales, tomamos nota de la consolidación 
del 99,7%  de sus líneas arancelarias. Por otra parte, la utilización de contingentes arancelarios y 
otras medidas no arancelarias como reglamentos técnicos, medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias, cuyo WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  proceso de análisis de riesgo no siempre es expedito, pueden restr ingir el acceso efectivo al mercado 
canadiense. Varias de las preguntas que Ecuador planteó a Canadá abordan estas temáticas.  
4.255.   La relación estratégica del Ecuador con Canadá tiene larga data, la cual inicia a principios 
del siglo XX alrededor de la construc ción del ferrocarril ecuatoriano e importantes inversiones en el 
sector de la minería. Inversiones que a la actualidad se han fortalecido y constituyen una importante 
fuente de financiamiento de los proyectos de minería responsable que impulsa el Gobierno 
ecuatoriano.  
4.256.   La relación comercial entre Canadá y Ecuador se ha caracterizado en gran medida por el 
comercio de productos agrícolas. Cacao, rosas y camarones ecuatorianos constituyen los principales 
productos de exportación. Mientras que la compra de trigo , lentejas y automóviles desde Canadá se 
reflejan en las importaciones ecuatorianas. Según cuentas de nuestro Banco Central, el comercio 
entre los dos países ha registrado un ligero crecimiento. Sin embargo, se ha caracterizado por un 
sostenido déficit par a Ecuador que, en el año 2018 superó los 180 millones de dólares 
norteamericanos. Por tanto, aprovechamos esta oportunidad para renovar el interés de Ecuador en 
lograr un intercambio comercial más equilibrado.  
4.257.   Vale destacar los fructíferos vínculos de coo peración generado entre Canadá y Ecuador 
alrededor de la promoción de programas de ciencia, innovación y tecnología y programas de becas 
destinados a estudiantes ecuatorianos. Otro aspecto relevante ha sido la entrada en vigor en 2017 
del Acuerdo de Servic ios Aéreos Ecuador –Canadá. Dicho Convenio ha facilitado una mejor conexión 
entre los dos países, a través de vuelos directos, lo que ha permitió ampliar paulatinamente las 
relaciones comerciales y potenciar el turismo de las dos naciones. Reiteramos el int erés del Ecuador 
de profundizar las relaciones comerciales y de inversión con Canadá, para lo cual se está trabajando 
desde diferentes esferas.  
4.258.   Para concluir, agradecemos a la delegación de Canadá por las respuestas a las preguntas 
que habíamos planteado y les deseamos éxito en la conclusión de su undécimo Examen de las 
políticas comerciales.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.259.   The Philippines associates itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by Thailand recognizing 
the growing trade and investment relations between ASEAN and Canada. We value this relationship 
deeply.  
4.260.   Trade plays a critical role in the Canadian economy, with aggregate two -way trade 
accounting for approximately 66% of its GDP. Canada accounts for 2.4% of global trade. In 2017, 
it was ranked as the 12th largest merchandise exporter and 12th largest merchandise importer in 
the world.  
4.261.   The Philippines and Canada have a long -standing bilateral economic relation. In 2018, 
Philippine exports to Canada grew by 8%, while imports from Canada increased by 13.5% making 
Canada the Philippines' 20th major trading partner in the world. Among the top traded products 
between the two countries are ignition wiring sets, copper ores, wood, and airplanes.  
4.262.   The Philippines notes from the Secretariat's report that during the review pe riod, Canada's 
trade policy focused on diversifying international trade and foreign direct investment (FDI), and on 
pursuing an inclusive approach to trade, focused on transparency, labour rights, the environment, 
micro, small and medium -sized enterprises (MSMEs), gender, and indigenous peoples.  
4.263.   The Philippines recognizes Canada's new Export Diversification Strategy, with the goal of 
increasing overseas exports by 50% by 2025; and commends its efforts in improving support to 
companies looking to export, pa rticularly MSMEs, and promoting gender equality through reducing 
barriers to the participation of women in international trade.  
4.264.   The Philippines appreciates Canada's recognition of the important role MSMEs in achieving 
inclusive growth and sustainable deve lopment, and looks forward to continue working together in 
advancing this initiative in the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.265.   Moreover, Canada is an active user of trade remedies and it has shown increase in the use 
of anti -dumping measures in recent years with 83 definitive anti -dump ing measures in place as of 
end of 2018. More than two -thirds of these measures were applied on steel products, including those 
that come from the Philippines. In this respect, the Philippines would like to know more about the 
factors that have contributed  to the increase and encourages Canada to exercise circumspection in 
taking these measures, especially in the case of developing countries.  
4.266.   The Philippines has submitted some written questions on the Canada' trade policy review 
reports, and we thank their  delegation for their responses which we will transmit to our capital for 
consideration.  
4.267.   In closing, our delegation would like to express our appreciation to Ambassador De Boer for 
his invaluable contribution as discussant in the Philippines' 5th Trade Pol icy Review last year. The 
Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial economic relations between 
our countries in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.268.   I note with appreciation that Canada actively pur sues an inclusive approach to trade through 
increased public engagement and protection of labour rights and the environment, together with 
improved conditions for the underrepresented such as small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs), 
all of which are esse ntial in shaping the modern -day trade policy.   
4.269.   In addition, I am pleased that Canada ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) 
in 2015 and, in parallel, rolled out initiatives to streamline trade and investment procedures by 
creating one -stop se rvice points through the Single Window Initiative and Invest in Canada Hub in 
particular.  
4.270.   I am especially encouraged that Canada remains a champion of a free, open, and rule -based 
trade system.  
4.271.   To illustrate, 70.4% of Canada's tariff lines have become dut y-free as of 2019 on an MFN 
basis compared with 67% in 2014, as import duties have been eliminated under the expanded WTO 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA). I also note that Canada has now formally removed export 
subsidies for major agricultural produ cts including wheat and oil seeds, and is bound to phase out 
remaining export subsidies by the end of 2020 in accordance with the Nairobi Ministerial Decision 
on Export Competition.  
4.272.   Turning to the bilateral front, I am pleased to note that Korea and Canada  have maintained 
mutually beneficial trade relations based on the complementary nature of the two economies. Korea 
is Canada's seventh largest trading partner and the third biggest in Asia.  
4.273.   Following the entry into force of the Korea -Canada FTA in 2015, ou r trade volume has made 
a steady increase. Especially last year, it surged by 18% and reached USD 11.5 billion making the 
highest record for the past seven years.  
4.274.   On investment, a total of USD 27 billion have been injected into both nations to increasingly  
diversified sectors. Korean FDI to Canada, once limited to mining and exploration, is now driven by 
financial and insurance services.  
4.275.   Canadian investment to Korea is well spread among manufacturing, bio -technology and ICT 
sectors, which rendered a remarka ble increase by 47% between 2015 and 2017 from the previous 
three years.  
4.276.   These outcomes once again vindicate significant contribution the FTA makes to our bilateral 
relations.  
4.277.   I would also like to take this opportunity to briefly comment on where there m ay be room 
for improvement in Canada's trade remedies.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.278.   As pointed out in the Secretariat's report, Canada is an active user of trade remedies, and 
cases are mounting at an accelerating pace.  
4.279.   Thirty -three (33) new anti -dumping measures were adopted betwee n 2015 and 2018 
whereas twenty -four (24) had been taken in the previous review period. It is noted with concern 
that Korea is one of the most targeted nations, primarily in regard to steel products with a total of 
twelve (12) cases as of today.  
4.280.   Korea beli eves that determinations on some of these cases were not made fully based on 
the facts available or with clarity in their review process in which the Canadian regulatory entity is 
given substantial discretionary authority. Taking into account the adverse e ffects of these measures 
on trade, it would be advisable that more prudent approaches are taken in both initiating 
investigations and implementing review proceedings.  
4.281.   Finally, Canada stands out as one of the most advanced and responsible trading nations an d 
is expected to exercise more leadership on this front. As Canada emphasized in the report, I have 
no doubt that Canada will continue to be at the forefront of protecting and building global confidence 
for the benefit of liberalized trade and the multilat eral system.  
4.282.   I would like to conclude by expressing my deep appreciation to the Canadian delegation for 
its hard work and wishing the delegation every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
SINGAPORE  
4.283.   Canada and Singapore enjoy warm and longstanding ties. Ou r economic relationship is multi -
faceted, with substantive engagement at the government -to-government level, as well as strong 
business ties between our private sectors. We also enjoy good investment links that have continued 
to grow.  
i. Bilateral trade in g oods totalled USD 2.1 billion in 2017, while services trade amounted to 
USD 1.8 billion in 2016.  
ii. We are also heartened that investment flow from Canada has been on an upward trend, 
totalling USD 8.9 billion in 2016.  
 
4.284.   Looking ahead, we believe that there ar e opportunities to further boost the trade and 
investment ties between our two countries and work together to strengthen the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.285.   One, Singapore and Canada continue to identify new opportunities for collaboration in areas 
of mutual interest, at the federal, provincial and municipal levels. During his visit to Singapore for 
the 33rd ASEAN and Related Summits in November 2018, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau 
and my Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong witnessed the signing of two Memo randa of Understanding 
(MOUs) on (i) cybersecurity cooperation, and (ii) infrastructure and smart cities cooperation. These 
are examples marking new and important areas of collaboration that will further deepen trade and 
investment links between Singapore and Canada.  
4.286.   Canadian businesses have been keen to leverage Singapore to expand operations across 
South -east Asia and the wider region. Singapore can continue to serve as a strategic launch -pad for 
these companies, which can tap on our networks as they expa nd their regional presence.  
4.287.   Two, Singapore is committed to boosting investment ties. We welcome the sizeable presence 
of Canadian companies in Singapore, which serves as their strategic launch pad to tap into the 
growing economic opportunities in ASEAN an d the wider Asia Pacific region. We also appreciate 
Canada's efforts to improve its attraction as a destination for foreign direct investment (FDI) by 
creating a one -stop shop for foreign investors through the creation of Invest in Canada, and new 
measures  to eliminate formal approval procedures for many potential investments.   
4.288.   We note the intention of the Investment Canada Act (ICA) to strike a fine balance between 
encouraging foreign investments and safeguarding Canada's national security interest. Howev er, we 
are concerned that the net benefit review investment threshold, specifically the significantly lower 
threshold applicable for state -owned enterprises, could become a barrier to legitimate foreign WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  investment. Commercially -run entities with a credible  track record should not be penalised purely 
on the basis of ownership, and therefore disadvantaged in accessing investment opportunities.  
4.289.   We hope that Canada can consider differentiating the thresholds for investors based on 
governance -related factors, a nd allow commercially -run entities to benefit from the review threshold 
that is applicable to private sector investors. This will enable a more targeted approach in Canada's 
review of foreign investments, and better achieve the intent of the ICA in balanci ng economic and 
national interests.  
4.290.   Three, Singapore will continue to work with Canada and all Members to strengthen the rules -
based multilateral trading system embodied in the WTO. We appreciate Canada's active role and 
leadership in the ongoing dialogue on WTO reform. In particular, Singapore appreciates Canada's 
initiative in convening the Ottawa Group, which has contributed to enriching the discussions on WTO 
reform and spurring constructive discussions with the larger WTO Membership.  
4.291.   We wish Canada eve ry success in its 11th Trade Policy Review and look forward to continuing 
to work closely together.  
TURKEY  
4.292.   In 2018, Canada was the 10th largest economy in the World with a nominal GDP close to 
USD 1.7 trillion. Since 2018, the Canadian economy has been reg istering steady growth, with an 
average rate of 2.1%.  
4.293.   Canada plays an important role as a link between North America and the fast -growing 
economies of Asia.  
4.294.   A net exporter of natural resources, being a member of the OECD, G -7 and G -20, Canada is 
considered one of the most dynamic economies in the World due to its secure business and 
investment environment.  
4.295.   We would like to commend Canada for the many initiati ves that it launched during the review 
period for diversifying its international trade and foreign direct investment.  
4.296.   This is particularly true for its efforts in making trade more inclusive in terms of the 
involvement of SME's and the economic empowerment  of women. Canada's efforts in this regard 
were especially visible in its engagement at the WTO.  
4.297.   We see the new Export Diversification Strategy as an important instrument to guide the 
exports of the country and help increasing overseas exports by 50% by 2 025 as projected.  
4.298.   It is based on this outlook that Turkey follows Canada as an important actor in global trade 
and related issues. We find Canada's efforts in preserving and improving the rules based multilateral 
trading system to be especially noteworthy as we appreciate its efforts through the Ottawa Group.  
4.299.   We would also like to congratulate Canada for successfully fulfilling its notification 
requirements during the review period.  
4.300.   Although there is progress in accessing investment architecture for forei gners, like the 
creation of Invest in Canada, foreign investment restrictions in key sectors, including mining and 
telecommunications still remain in place. The report underlines this issue as well. This is also 
confirmed by the OECD Restrictiveness Index.  We therefore point out that there is still room for 
improvement in this vein.  
4.301.   Although Canada maintains its open trade regime during the review period, applied tariffs 
on agricultural products remain considerably higher than on industrial products.  
4.302.   As th e Secretariat report states the average applied tariff rate on agricultural products is 
21.8%, where average tariff for dairy products is 238.7% and 47.2% for animal products.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.303.   The limited tariff rate quota application and the high tariff is also preventin g market access 
for our companies. We may say that agricultural sector is still not as competitive as other sectors 
primarily because of high tariffs and subsidies. We therefore encourage Canada to calibrate its 
policies in agriculture sector.  
4.304.   Pursuant glo bal developments in steel industry, Canadian Federal Government has 
announced financial support programs for the domestic steel sector. We are closely monitoring those 
subsidized financial aids and hope that they are brought more in line with arrangements under the 
WTO.  
4.305.   (As other have mentioned) Canada continues to actively use trade remedies. Adopted 
anti-dumping measures are on increase and registered as 33 in the review period, compared with 
24 measures in the previous review period. Four of these measur es were applied on Turkey. On 
trade remedies, we expect Canada to continue cooperation with Turkey for ongoing investigation 
and to adapt less protective measures.  
4.306.   We are also concerned on recent proposed amendments to the safeguard legislation in 
Canada. These amendments aim to repeal the provisions in the Customs Tariff to allow the 
Government to impose back -to-back provisional safeguard measures. We remind Canada to take 
into account the existing safeguard rules of the WTO Agreements and requirement of a  "cooling off" 
period of two years before new measures are introduced in line with existing agreements.  
4.307.   Canada is an important economic and commercial partner for Turkey.  
4.308.   It has been designated by our Ministry of Trade as one of the high priority countri es for the 
term 2018 -2019.  
4.309.   Our bilateral trade volume in 2018 in was USD 3.28 billion.   
4.310.   Just last week we signed the Agreement for the establishment of a Joint Economic and Trade 
Committee (JETCO) on the margins of the G -20 Trade Ministerial Meeting  in Japan.  
4.311.   There are 377 Canadian companies operating in Turkey. Direct investment of Canada in 
Turkey reached USD 543 million as of March 2019. Turkish investment in Canada is about 
USD 100 million.  
4.312.   We hope JETCO to accelerate the process for starting negoti ations of Canada -Turkey FTA 
and deliver further growth in our trade volume.  
4.313.   We are also ready to negotiate an Agreement on Mutual Promotion and Protection of 
Investments.  
4.314.   Turkey will continue its close and fruitful dialogue with Canada in both bilateral a nd 
multilateral platforms.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.315.   Canadá es un socio comercial muy importante para Costa Rica. Contamos con un acuerdo 
de libre comercio desde el año 2002 y este tuvo un significado particular para Costa Rica, pues fue 
el primero que firmamos con un pa ís desarrollado, promoviendo el incremento de los flujos de 
comercio e inversión en condiciones de previsibilidad, seguridad y transparencia. Asimismo, fue el 
primer acuerdo comercial en el que Costa Rica incorporó disposiciones sobre temas ambientales y 
laborales mediante acuerdos paralelos de cooperación.  
4.316.   Somos mercados complementarios, por lo que nuestro intercambio comercial incluye bienes 
tanto agrícolas como industriales - en ambas vías - y Canadá ha encontrado en Costa Rica un 
interesante destino pa ra sus inversiones, sobre todo en el ámbito industrial y financiero.  
4.317.   En el escenario multilateral, Canadá y Costa Rica comparten participación en el grupo Cairns 
y como Amigos del Sistema, al igual que compartimos enfoques similares en temas como la WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  facilitación de comercio, la transparencia en el cumplimiento de las obligaciones, el comercio y 
desarrollo sostenibles, género y Mipymes, por citar algunos.  
4.318.   Durante el período de evaluación, Canadá asumió el compromiso de eliminar los subsidios a 
las exportac iones agrícolas, según lo acordado en la Conferencia Ministerial en Nairobi, y ha ido 
progresivamente honrando esta obligación con miras a concluir en el año 2020 a más tardar.  
4.319.   Por otra parte, y como importante exportador de pescado y derivados, Canadá es tá 
comprometida con las negociaciones sobre subsidios a la pesca y, en particular, a combatir la pesca 
ilegal, no declarada y no reglamentada. Este compromiso se refleja en las acciones que llevan a 
cabo mediante su activa participación en las negociacione s en curso junto con reformas legales a 
nivel nacional y la suscripción de convenios que buscan proteger los recursos marinos. Costa Rica 
quisiera reconocer las acciones de Canadá en este campo, que reflejan su compromiso con el sistema 
multilateral y con una institucionalidad basada en reglas, transparencia y equidad.  
4.320.   En el ámbito de servicios, observamos la robustez de su sector financiero, de 
telecomunicaciones y de seguros, al igual que en el área de transporte donde el aumento en la 
capacidad de transporte aéreo ha permitido un incremento en el sector turismo. Esto ha beneficiado 
también a Costa Rica pues las playas y bosques costarricenses reciben a miles de turistas 
canadienses que aprovechan la frecuencia de los vuelos directos provenientes de Toronto, Vancouver 
y Montreal.  
4.321.   Con respecto a la política arancelaria,  llama la atención la aplicación de aranceles no 
ad valorem  y de aranceles mucho más altos en el sector agrícola con respecto al industrial. Costa 
Rica considera que aún existe un amplio espacio de mejora en este ámbito.  
4.322.   Los retos a los que se enfrenta un miembro como Canadá son muy distintos a los que tiene 
un país como Costa Rica por su escala y recursos, sin embargo la manera en que los aborda, con 
pragmatismo y compromiso, es equivalente.  
4.323.   Nos complace haber sido parte de este Examen de política comerci al, pues si bien mi 
delegación no presentó preguntas, este ejercicio de transparencia entre pares es inclusivo y permite 
el intercambio franco y constructivo.  
4.324.   Le deseo a Canadá una conclusión exitosa de su 11º Examen de política comercial y 
agradezco nueva mente al ponente y a la Secretaría por su valioso aporte.  
URUGUAY  
4.325.   En primer lugar, congratulamos a Canadá por los principales resultados macroeconómicos 
alcanzados durante el período objeto de examen, basados en una economía diversificada y abierta 
y un el evado nivel de vida para su población. Asimismo, destacamos los esfuerzos de Canadá para 
profundizar su inserción internacional a través de la diversificación de su comercio internacional e 
inversión extranjera directa, basado en la transparencia, los dere chos laborales, el medio ambiente, 
las pequeñas y medianas empresas, entre otros aspectos.  
4.326.   Asimismo, destacamos el compromiso de Canadá y su activa participación y liderazgo en la 
labor ordinaria de los Consejos y Comités de la OMC, las negociaciones, la solución de diferencias, 
la promoción de iniciativas, en particular el Consejo del Comercio de Mercancías, bajo la conducción 
del Embajador Stephen De Boer, de quien Uruguay recibió la presidencia recientemente.  
4.327.   Tomamos nota del interés demostrado por Can adá en celebrar acuerdos comerciales como 
parte de su política comercial y la entrada en vigor o aplicación provisional de algunos de ellos. En 
ese sentido, recordamos que el Mercosur y Canadá se encuentran negociando desde el año pasado 
un acuerdo de libr e comercio y durante las rondas de negociaciones avanzaron en los diferentes 
capítulos de dicho acuerdo, incluyendo capítulos sobre aspectos laborales, ambientales, pequeñas y 
medianas empresas, así como género y comercio. En base al progreso alcanzado, se  mantienen 
reuniones de acuerdo a un intenso plan de trabajo que continuaran la semana próxima en 
Montevideo, entendemos, con el objetivo de concluir el conjunto de la negociación a fines de 2019.   
4.328.   Uruguay le desea a Canadá el mayor de los éxitos en su Ex amen de sus políticas comerciales.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  VIET  NAM 
4.329.   We would like to associate ourselves with the ASEAN joint statement delivered by 
Ambassador Sunanta Kangvalkulkij of Thailand.  
4.330.   We are pleased to know that the Canadian economy continued to grow during the review 
period. Moderate GDP growth was combined with low inflation, a decreasing current account deficit 
and real exchange rate depreciation. With this performance, we believe that the country's economy 
will expand further in the years to come.  
4.331.   For our trade rel ations, Viet Nam is Canada's largest trading partner within the ASEAN. In 
2018, bilateral trade recorded a year -on-year increase of over 10% to nearly USD 3.9 billion.  
4.332.   Viet Nam's major export items to Canada are garment and textile, footwear, computers, a nd 
electronic products and components. Viet Nam mainly imports wheat, fertilizer and soya bean from 
Canada. Two -way trade is targeted to reach USD 8 billion in the next five years.  
4.333.   In terms of investment, we would welcome Canadian investors to invest in t he financial, 
banking, high technology, agricultural and renewable energy sectors.  
4.334.   Viet Nam and Canada are now Parties of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for 
Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). Since the entry into force of the Agreement for bo th countries in 
January 2019, two -way trade has posted a sharp increase of 30% year -on-year to USD 1.46 billion.  
4.335.   Given the fact that the CPTPP is a high -standard and "new generation" agreement, with the 
commitments made to each other in this Agreement, bi lateral trade between Viet Nam and Canada 
is expected to expand strongly and sustainably in the coming time, bringing about practical benefits 
for both countries and the people.  
4.336.   At the multilateral level, Viet Nam highly commends Canada's commitment and v aluable 
contribution over the years to the WTO. Canada is not only the tenth biggest economy in the world, 
but also one of the most active and leading Members of the Organization. Viet Nam appreciates the 
important roles played by Canada in promoting negot iations and deliberations in recent years, 
including potential WTO improvements, particularly at this critical stage for this organization. Canada 
has been contributing in the process as an important Member and as an active proponent of the 
various negotia tion areas.  
4.337.   Finally, I would like to commend Ambassador Stephen de Boer and his able team for the 
very active and constructive role they play in all of the WTO's activities. We wish Canada a very 
fruitful and successful TPR.  
AFGHANISTAN  
4.338.   We are pleased to note that Canada's economy witnessed GDP growth and low inflation 
during the review period. GDP per capita reached CAD 59,838 in 2018, up from CAD 58,607 in 2017.  
4.339.   We appreciate Canada's trade policy focus on diversifying international trade and foreign 
direct investment (FDI), and on pursuing an inclusive approach to trade, focused on transparency, 
labour rights, the environment, small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs), gender, and Indigenous 
peoples.  
4.340.   Also, Afghanistan commends Canada for concluding new  FTA's and joining new multilateral 
treaties in the period of review.  
4.341.   I would like to underline the importance of Canada's commitment and leadership to preserve 
multilateral trading system and address the challenges of this organization.  
4.342.   Canada is an acti ve Member of the WTO with regular contribution in WTO committees, 
negotiations, dispute settlement, monitoring, and plurilateral initiatives. It also plays a leadership 
role by chairing WTO bodies and promoting initiatives such as trade and gender in the W TO, as well 
as through its work on WTO reform.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.343.   I would like to take this opportunity to commend the excellent work and leadership of 
Ambasador Stephen de Boer and his competent team members here in Geneva.  
4.344.   While Afghanistan values its historic relationship with Canada, we acknowledge the positive 
role of Canada has played amongst other friends of Afghanistan, during the past 18 years, in our 
new and critical journey towards a secure, open, democratic and pro sperous Afghanistan. In 
particular, we value Canada's support to Afghanistan during its accession to the WTO.  
4.345.   I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Government and people of Canada for their 
invaluable assistance and support provided to my cou ntry. 
4.346.   I conclude my statement by wishing the delegation of Canada a very successful and 
productive Trade Policy Review.  
GUATEMALA  
4.347.   Guatemala y Canadá han mantenido tradicionalmente una relación estrecha y cordial en una 
gran diversidad de temas de su agenda  bilateral y regional. En términos de comercio e inversión, 
nuestros países han sostenido históricamente una relación estable y armónica. Existe sin embargo 
un gran potencial para un incremento significativo en su intercambio de bienes y servicios.  
4.348.   Guatema la es el segundo socio comercial principal de Canadá en Centroamérica. La balanza 
comercial ha mostrado un avance progresivo en los últimos años. El comercio bilateral de mercancías 
entre Canadá y Guatemala en 2017 ascendió a USD 832,2 millones. Los princi pales productos 
importados de Canadá consisten en maquinaria, papas, fertilizantes y aparatos eléctricos. Por su 
parte, los principales productos exportados a Canadá consisten en azúcar, textiles, vegetales y 
frutas.  
4.349.   Las inversiones canadienses en Guatema la constituyen una de sus fuentes principales de 
Inversión Extranjera Directa (IED) y abarcan una gran variedad de sectores tales como la minería, 
agricultura, silvicultura, energía, telecomunicaciones y servicios financieros. Nuestros países han 
discutido  y negociado por varios años un Tratado de Libre Comercio y ambos países están abiertos 
a continuar dichas negociaciones.  
4.350.   En relación con el examen de políticas comerciales que hoy nos concierne, resaltamos la 
capacidad de la economía canadiense para resi stir a las perturbaciones externas y mantener un 
crecimiento, así como la aplicación de una política fiscal prudente, los esfuerzos para reequilibrar su 
déficit en el período 2015 -2016. Destacamos su activa participación en los diferentes escenarios de 
esta Organización, en los cuales ha contribuido de manera constructiva en muchas de las iniciativas 
que fortalecen el multilateralismo.  
4.351.   Canadá notificó a la OMC su aceptación del Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio (AFC) el 
16 de diciembre de 2016. Además , ha completado los procedimientos y aplicado los compromisos 
contraídos en el marco de la ampliación del Acuerdo sobre Tecnología de la Información (ATI), y ha 
cumplido con regularidad sus obligaciones de notificación durante el período.  
4.352.   Por otro lado, no s llama la atención el número de programas de subvenciones e incentivos 
que brindan asistencia a sus empresas bajo diferentes formas, así como la aplicación de medidas 
que promueven la participación de la mujer en el comercio, el fomento de nuevas cadenas 
productivas incentivando el trabajo desarrollado por las pymes como parte de su estrategia de 
diversificación de exportaciones.  
4.353.   Durante este período de examen, Canada  ha creado la Oficina de Inversiones, un organismo 
ministerial que tiene por objeto aumentar la capacidad para atraer y facilitar Inversión Extranjera 
Directa como mecanismo de generación de nuevas fuentes de trabajo en los diversos sectores 
económicos del  país  
4.354.   Es importante hacer notar que para Canadá uno de sus temas relevantes es lo relacionado 
a los derechos de propiedad intelectual, en el año 2018 lanzó su Estrategia en materia de Propiedad 
Intelectual, como una herramienta de impulso para el crecimie nto en el sector empresarial, 
generación de innovación y transferencia de tecnología como elementos claves en el desarrollo.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.355.   Para concluir, Guatemala desea a Canadá que en el marco de la aplicación de sus políticas 
económicas y comerciales continúen cosec hando éxito en cuanto a su crecimiento económico y 
desarrollo, confiando en que nuestros países continúen fortaleciendo los lazos comerciales y de 
amistad.  
PARAGUAY  
4.356.   Paraguay desea destacar al país sujeto a examen, como bien lo señala el informe de la 
Secre taría, como un Miembro de economía abierta que tiene al comercio como fuerza motriz: una 
"nación comerciante". Ante la crisis de confianza y auge del proteccionismo, Canadá ha sabido alzar 
la bandera por un comercio abierto y previsible, basado en reglas, que apueste por integrar a toda 
la sociedad en el comercio internacional y empoderar a todos los actores de la población más 
vulnerable.  
4.357.   Canadá no solamente hizo del comercio el motor de su economía: actualmente las corrientes 
comerciales globales en ambos  sentidos (importaciones más exportaciones) equivalen 
aproximadamente al 65% del PIB, si no que a la vez ha podido distribuir los beneficios del comercio 
a su población: en 2018 el PIB per Cápita en términos nominales fue de USD 46.182, ofreciendo a 
su pob lación un elevado nivel de calidad de vida.  
4.358.   La búsqueda de dicho país por lograr la diversificación económica no puede dejar de 
subrayarse como lección aprendida. En este sentido, queremos felicitar a las autoridades 
canadienses por haber adoptado la "Estr ategia de Diversificación de las Exportaciones", cuya meta 
consiste en incrementar las exportaciones en un 50% para el año 2025. Dicha visión a largo plazo 
ha permitido a este país no solo diversificar su economía si no que a su vez le ha ganado un espacio  
de liderazgo en el contexto del comercio internacional como referente en cuestiones relacionadas al 
comercio inclusivo. Canadá no solo es un socio comercial atractivo si no que es un Miembro que 
exige altos estándares sociales de igualdad y bienestar a qu ienes hacen negocios con ellos, marcando 
reiteradamente el impacto de los derechos laborales en el comercio, alzando la voz por la igualdad 
de género y empoderamiento de la mujer, y luchando por la inserción de las MIPYMES y las minorías 
en el comercio mun dial, elementos esenciales para diluir los beneficios del desarrollo económico a 
los pequeños jugadores de la economía.  
4.359.   En el ámbito económico -comercial esperamos continuar estrechando nuestros vínculos 
comerciales a través de las negociaciones en el conte xto del MERCOSUR. En este punto, debemos 
reconocer la importante labor del bloque en la búsqueda y apertura de nuevos mercados y destacar 
el avance de las negociaciones en curso entre el MERCOSUR y Canadá que se encuentran en una 
etapa bastante avanzada ya  entrando en su VI ronda de negociación. Los países del MERCOSUR 
representan una oportunidad para que Canadá aumente su huella económica en América del Sur. 
La negociación comprende capítulos en materia de acceso a mercado en bienes, servicios, servicios 
financieros, entrada temporal de personas, comercio electrónico, inversiones, comercio y género, 
propiedad intelectual, contratación pública, por citar algunos. Esperamos resultados ambiciosos que 
ofrezcan beneficios concretos a las poblaciones de ambas eco nomías.  
4.360.   Para el Paraguay, estas negociaciones representan una oportunidad y a la vez un gran 
desafío, dado que, conforme a la composición de nuestra oferta exportable, concentrada en bienes 
agrícolas, los resultados podrían no ser inmediatos. Es por ello q ue agradecemos a Canadá las 
consideraciones que otorgue a las condiciones especiales del Paraguay, particularmente en las 
negociaciones en servicios.  
4.361.   Igualmente señalamos la importancia de la entrada en vigor de tres nuevos acuerdos por 
parte de Canadá: el  Acuerdo Económico y Comercial Global entre Canadá y la Unión Europea, 
(AECG); el Tratado de Libre Comercio Canadá -Ucrania (CUFTA) y el Tratado Integral y Progresista 
de Asociación Transpacífico (CPTPP). Asimismo, destacamos los esfuerzos por renovar los 
compromisos con sus principales socios comerciales, Estados Unidos y México en el contexto del 
Tratado de Libre Comercio de América del Norte (TLCAN). Creemos que esta integración económica 
y comercial servirá de ejemplo para avanzar hacia una mayor liberal ización del comercio de bienes 
y servicios a nivel multilateral.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.362.   En el ámbito de la OMC aplaudimos el apoyo y la importancia que Canadá brinda al sistema 
multilateral del comercio y destacamos su activa participación dentro de los distintos Comités, 
Grupos  e Iniciativas de la OMC.  
4.363.   Como bien destaca el informe de la Secretaría, en los últimos años, Canadá ha desempeñado 
una excelente función de liderazgo al presidir algunos órganos de la OMC y promover iniciativas 
como las relacionadas con el comercio y el g énero, así como en su importante trabajo en el marco 
de la Iniciativa de Reforma de la OMC, demostrando un alto nivel de compromiso en materia de 
transparencia, en la que nos gustaría destacar el cumplimiento regular de este Miembro con las 
notificaciones y el trabajo multilateral constructivo de su delegación en Ginebra.  
4.364.   Igualmente, no podemos dejar de mencionar los esfuerzos conjuntos que llevamos adelante 
en materia de Agricultura en el contexto del Grupo Cairns, en el que destacamos su activo rol en el 
avance de las discusiones en esta disciplina, con la preparación de documentos y datos estadísticos 
para informar los debates e impulsar la conclusión de los temas pendientes, sobre todo en el pilar 
de competencia a las exportaciones. Por otro lado, destac amos los aportes de Canadá en el marco 
de las iniciativas conjuntas de Comercio Electrónico, MIPYMES y Facilitación de Inversiones para el 
Desarrollo.  
4.365.   En nombre de mi país, reitero mis felicitaciones a quienes tienen a su cargo la conducción 
de este Examen  y a los delegados de la Misión Permanente de Canadá en Ginebra, por su siempre 
activa participación y contribución a los trabajos de esta Organización.  
PERÚ  
4.366.   El Perú y Canadá disfrutan de una relación bilateral excelente, que destaca por la amplia 
gama de materias en las que colaboramos. Ello es posible gracias a la afinidad de valores y objetivos, 
que ha determinado que el Perú y Canadá se valgan de su frecuente diálogo bilateral, así como de 
diversos foros regionales y multilaterales, para impulsar la vig encia universal de los derechos 
humanos, el respeto a las minorías y las poblaciones indígenas, el empoderamiento de la mujer, el 
fortalecimiento del sistema democrático, la defensa del multilateralismo, la lucha contra los efectos 
del cambio climático y, por supuesto, la promoción del libre comercio y de las inversiones.  
4.367.   Sobre la relación económico -comercial, cabe resaltar el incremento de los capitales 
canadienses en el Perú en los años recientes, que ha significado que Canadá se convierta en una de 
las principales fuentes de inversión en mi país. El TLC Perú -Canadá, que entró en vigor en 2009, 
promovió un marco legal favorable para las inversiones recíprocas, pues incluyó un capítulo para 
este propósito, que se ha sumado a un Acuerdo específico para la pr omoción y protección de 
inversiones, y otro con miras a evitar la doble tributación.  
4.368.   En el ámbito comercial, si bien el intercambio bilateral sigue siendo considerable, superando 
en 2018 los USD 1,843 millones estadounidenses, se observa una tendencia decreciente en los 
intercambios desde el año 2011, tendencia ante la cual el Perú trabaja  con miras a retomar la senda 
del crecimiento. Para ello, ambos países nos vemos en el escenario favorable de alcanzar niveles de 
integración cada vez más ambiciosos, a través de acuerdos como el CPTPP y los Estados Asociados 
de la Alianza del Pacífico.  
4.369.   El Perú toma nota con satisfacción de los éxitos económicos recientes de Canadá, para los 
cuales sin duda juega un rol importante el comercio internacional. La apertura comercial se ve 
ejemplificada en una tasa arancelaria promedio de aproximadamente 6% y u na mayor proporción 
de líneas arancelarias que cuentan con ingreso libre de arancel bajo el principio de Nación Más 
Favorecida, desde el Examen previo de Canadá ante este Órgano. De igual manera, cabe hacer notar 
el número bastante bajo de reclamos ante lo s Órganos técnicos de esta Organización, por medidas 
impuestas por Canadá.   
4.370.   En lo que concierne al trabajo en esta Organización, el Perú saluda la participación 
transversal y activa de la delegación canadiense. El Perú y Canadá compartimos el interés por la 
modernización de la OMC y por la preservación de su sistema de solución de diferencias. En este 
sentido, damos la bienvenida con interés, a los esfuerzos del llamado "Grupo de Ottawa", en donde 
Canadá ha jugado un rol de liderazgo. Ambos países comparti mos igualmente intereses en la 
reducción o eliminación de los subsidios que afectan el comercio, por ejemplo, en la agricultura y la WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  pesca, y apoyamos la búsqueda de medios para que esta Organización obre más en favor del 
empoderamiento económico de la muj er.   
4.371.   En vista de que el Perú no ha planteado preguntas para este Examen, sólo me resta expresar 
la confianza del Gobierno peruano en el sentido de que, manteniéndonos por la vía de la integración, 
la cooperación y el diálogo, lograremos Perú y Canadá cons eguir aún mejores resultados económicos 
en los años futuros, en beneficio de todos nuestros ciudadanos. Con dicha intención en mente, no 
me resta sino desear a Canadá, un exitoso Examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
TAKIKISTAN  
4.372.   The Republic of Tajikistan co mmends Canada for all that it has achieved since last TPR. 
Important steps have been taken by the Government of Canada to advance integration of its 
economy into the global trading system. During the review period, Canada's global GDP ranking has 
remained steady. Canada was the world's 10th largest economy in 2017 and the Canadian economy 
grew by 3.0%, the strongest pace since 2011 and the fastest pace among G7 countries. The economy 
grew by 1.8% in 2018 and GDP per capita reached approximately USD 46,2 tho usand in nominal 
terms.  
4.373.   We welcome the efforts of Canada, particularly to advance WTO reform discussions and its 
active engagement in a number of plurilateral and multilateral initiatives at the WTO. Canada actively 
participates in the regular work of the WTO committees, negotiations, dispute settlement and 
monitoring. It also plays a leadership role to promote initiative such as trade and gender in the WTO. 
Canada notified the WTO of its acceptance of the TFA in 2016 and implemented its commitments 
under t he ITA Expansion.  
4.374.   On the bilateral ties. The Tajik -Canadian partnership is currently reaching a new level of its 
development. The main feature is the further expansion of trade relations, implementation of joint 
socio-economic projects and deepening cooper ation in different areas of economy. The numbers of 
Tajik-Canadian JV has been established and are functioning in the Republic of Tajikistan.  
4.375.   As the trade relations' indicators are not significant (USD 9.1 million in 2018) the relevant 
measures are being t aken in order to strengthen and raise the trade turnover between two countries.  
4.376.   Here, I would like to highlight the number of important areas of cooperation between 
Tajikistan and Canada, including energy, agriculture, information and telecommunication, tr ansport 
and communication infrastructure, and tourism.  
4.377.   The Republic of Tajikistan highly appreciates the hard work and strong commitment of 
Canada and wishes Canada a very successful and productive Trade Policy Review.  
EGYPT  
4.378.   Egypt and Canada share a well -established and multi -faceted relationship founded on 
political proximity, development cooperation and cultural exchange, while having economic ties at 
the very core.  
4.379.   On the economic front, bilateral trade witnessed a steady growth over the past years. In 
2018, the volume of bilateral trade surpassed USD 1 billion, constituting an increase of almost 2% 
as compared to the previous year. And while we acknowledge the growing trade volume between 
our countries, we strongly believe that there is much potential to  be explored to maximize our mutual 
benefit.  
4.380.   We applaud the decision of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to grant access to Egypt's 
exports of fresh grapes to the Canadian market as of January 2018, as well as the decision to remove 
the ban on EgyptAir 's cargo flights to Canada as of May 2018. Such decisions reinforce trade relations 
between our countries; however, we note the high cost of full ocean container inspection in Canadian 
ports, which poses extra burdens on exporters from developing countries . 
4.381.   As for investment cooperation, Canada is one of the biggest foreign investors in Egypt, with 
more than 360 Canadian enterprises in various Egyptian sectors, mainly in manufacturing and WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  financial domains. Yet, we look forward to increased and more diversi fied Canadian investments in 
Egypt.  
4.382.   Egypt firmly supports the multilateral trading system and its contribution to global welfare, 
and hence greatly appreciates Canada's active role in the various WTO committees, negotiations, 
and new initiatives, as well a s the ongoing discussions regarding WTO reform.  
4.383.   In addition, Canada is a strong supporter of the WTO's work on trade facilitation and is a 
donor to the trade facilitation agreement facility, with a contribution mounting to CAD 35.8 million 
in 2015 and 201 6.  
4.384.   We commend trade liberalization efforts by Canada, particularly the 3% increase in MFN 
duty-free tariff lines in 2019 as compared to 2014. However, we note that the average tariff on 
agricultural products remains at a much higher level than that on non -agricultural ones, with the 
existence of some non -ad valorem duties and tariff peaks.  
4.385.   Finally, Egypt praises Canada for its impressive economic performance during the review 
period, in addition to its efforts to further diversify the Canadian economy, an d wishes the Canadian 
delegation a successful Trade Policy Review.  
MAROC  
4.386.   Le Canada est une économie largement ouverte avec des échanges commerciaux 
représentant 65% du PIB.  
4.387.   Le Canada est, en outre, un pays très attaché au multilatéralisme. En témoigne l'in itiative 
d'Ottawa qu'il a lancé en 2018 et que nous suivons avec un grand intérêt.  
4.388.   C'est un pays modèle en termes de diversification économique, malgré l'abondance de ses 
ressources naturelles.  
4.389.   C'est également une économie à forte attractivité, d'où la par t importante des 
investissements directs étrangers qu'il reçoit.  
4.390.   Le Maroc se réjouit de la coopération entre nos deux pays dans plusieurs domaines 
notamment l'agriculture, l'éducation, l'industrie, les télécommunications, et l'environnement.  
4.391.   Bien que nos ambitions soient beaucoup plus importantes, nous constatons avec satisfaction 
la progression des échanges commerciaux entre le Maroc et le Canada, ainsi que l'expansion des 
accords de transport aérien entre nos deux pays.  
4.392.   Le Maroc accorde un intérêt notoire au renforcement de notre coopération avec le Canada. 
En témoigne la présence de grandes banques marocaines au Canada mis en place afin de servir la 
communauté canado -marocaine et fructifier le potentiel de développement des affaires entre les 
deux pays.  
4.393.   Le Canada entretient avec ses partenaires africains des relations de longue date, fondées 
sur de solides liens interpersonnels, de coopération au développement et des relations d'affaires.  
4.394.   Par ailleurs, l'Afrique est aujourd'hui une région des plus dynamiques en termes de 
croissance économique. Le continent Africain sera l'un des continents les plus peuplés du monde 
d'ici 2050.  
4.395.   Nous lançons un appel aux acteurs canadiens afin qu'ils tirent profit de la dynamique de 
développement et de transformation économique en cours en Afrique qui est porteuse de grandes 
opportunités.  
4.396.   Le Royaume du Maroc souhaite au Canada, pays partenaire et ami, plein succès dans 
l'Examen de leurs politiques commerciales  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.397.   The history of the bilateral relations betw een Canada and the Kyrgyz Republic starts from 
1992, when Canada recognized the independence of the Kyrgyz Republic.  
4.398.   The cooperation between the parties within the regular visits of authorities and business 
representatives of the countries in multilateral  international events gives hope for further 
constructive and mutually beneficial cooperation. One of them, the first Kyrgyz -Canadian foreign 
affairs ministerial consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kyrgyz Republic and 
Global Affair s Canada, which were held in Ottawa last year.   
4.399.   As result of the consultations, parties confirmed their intention to make efforts to develop 
bilateral relations in the field of diversification of trade and economic cooperation and investment 
cooperation. We hope that these efforts will pave the future background for fruitful cooperation 
among the states.  
4.400.   It is worth to note, that despite of far distance, countries could establish resilient and stabile 
framework of cooperation in trade -economic, political and cultural spheres. The one of the spheres, 
where states could establish and cooperation on the state level, is a mining field, where the Kyrgyz 
Republic and the Canadian company mines gold.  
4.401.   Trade and economic relations between the Kyrgyz Republic and C anada are regulated by the 
WTO agreement and both countries enjoy the Most Favoured Nation treatment in trade. Early 
acceptance by Canada of TRIPS Agreement and TFA characterizes Canada as a member fully 
committed to the WTO rules.  
4.402.   In the following part o f our statement I would like to highlight some key elements of the 
trade relations between the Kyrgyz Republic and Canada.  
4.403.   The share of import by the Kyrgyz Republic dominates under the export, what reflects the 
need of the Kyrgyz Republic of the goods fr om Canada.  
4.404.   The main exports goods from Kyrgyzstan to Canada are during the last years are: inorganic 
chemicals, clothing and clothing accessories, parts and accessories for cars, machines designed for 
specific industries, special, scientific and control d evices and devices, power generating machines 
and equipment.  
4.405.   Import from Canada to the Kyrgyz Republic is mostly represented by goods mining purposes 
as machinery and parts thereof, substances necessary in mining. Other important items of import 
to the Ky rgyz Republic are represented as follows: pharmacy production, goods from plastic, certain 
types of building materials and others.  
4.406.   Besides the trading of goods, the service sector has also further potential for growth. In this 
context, we suggest to the d elegation of Canada to expand tourism sector of the Kyrgyz Republic 
and widen cooperation and trade in services sector between our states.  
4.407.   As part of exploring the possibilities of expanding economic and investment cooperation, we 
would like to propose to  consider the possibility of establishing cooperation with Canadian companies 
and enterprises. It could be initially forming the basis for establishing and diversifying direct business 
ties between the two countries.  
4.408.   I would like to note the constructive cooperation between the Kyrgyz Republic and Canada 
based on mutual respect and equality, and we cannot stop on accomplished level. I hope that by 
joint efforts will be able to bring our bilateral relations to new horizons.  
4.409.   Coming to the logical end of my statement, we wish a successful 11th Trade policy Review 
to the delegation of Canada.  
MALAYSIA  
4.410.   Malaysia associates itself with the statement delivered by Thailand on behalf of ASEAN.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.411.   Since the last review, there has been an uncertainty to the challenging economic backdrop. 
While so, Malaysia applauds Canada the concerted effort to address slower economic growth by 
making strategic investments in physical and social infrastructure, innovation, science and research, 
and skills and training. During the period  of 2015 -2018, Canada's GDP ranking has remained steady. 
Canada was the world's 10th largest economy in 2015 to 2017.  
4.412.   At the multilateral front, Malaysia appreciates Canada's strong support and commitment to 
fair and predictable trade through the rules -based multilateral trading system, especially in this 
moment when some other members turn inward and retreating to protectionism.  
4.413.   On WTO reform, Malaysia commends Canada for the leadership role in effort to improve and 
strengthen the WTO and Canada's active role in resolving this issue, and we hope that the needs 
and interest of the developing members will remain as a priority. At the same time, we are 
encouraged by the efforts by Canada in the various Joint Statement Initiatives including the Joint 
Statement  adopted at the previous 11th Ministerial Conference on MSMEs and Ecommerce; as well 
as Investment Facilitation for Development. Malaysia looks forward to working closely with Canada 
and all other Members on moving these initiatives forward in the WTO.  
4.414.   We also commend Canada in its commitment in assisting other developing Members to 
integrate and benefit from the multilateral trading system through technical assistance and capacity 
building activities. This include Canada's contributions to the Standards an d Trade Development 
Facility (STDF) that enable Programme to be undertaken to assist developing countries comply with 
international food safety, animal and plant health standards and therefore, access agricultural 
markets more easily.  
4.415.   Canada has been an im portant partner in trade and investment for Malaysia. In 2018, the 
total trade between Malaysia and Canada rose 3.8% to USD 1.69 billion. Total exports increased by 
0.6% to USD 880 million while total imports expanded by 7.4% to USD 810 million.  
4.416.   In terms o f investment, a total of 87 manufacturing projects with Canadian participation, 
valued at USD 240 million, were implemented as of 2018. These projects created more than 
10,000  employment opportunities for Malaysians. Canada is also an important destination  for 
Malaysia's direct investment abroad. In 2018, Canada was the 5th largest recipient of Malaysia's 
direct investment abroad.  
4.417.   The economic partnership between Malaysia and Canada is further enhanced through the 
ASEAN -Canada Dialogue Partner which cooperates on political and security issues, regional 
integration, economic interests, inter -faith dialogue, transnational crime and co unterterrorism, 
disaster risk reduction and other areas.  
4.418.   On the Trade Policy Review, Malaysia has submitted several questions in writing and we 
would like to thank the delegation of the Canada in advance for the respective responses. Malaysia 
is rather in terested in seeking more clarification on the competition policy in Canada as well as IP 
regime.  
4.419.   Finally, Malaysia would like to congratulate Canada for its robust economic growth during 
the review period and wishes Canada a successful trade policy review . Malaysia also takes this 
opportunity to congratulate Ambassador Stephen De Boer for his dedication in leading the Permanent 
Mission here in Geneva and the Canadian team for the active engagement here with other Missions 
at the WTO.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.420.   Esta deleg ación no remitió preguntas escritas dentro del plazo, sin embargo, este día 
estaremos remitiendo algunas preguntas en materia de competencia y agradecemos de antemano 
las respuestas que la delegación de Canadá nos pueda brindar.  
4.421.   Del informe de la Secretar ía observamos que la economía canadiense ha tenido un 
crecimiento moderado del PIB, una inflación baja, una relación relativamente estable entre la deuda 
del Gobierno federal y el PIB, un déficit decreciente de la cuenta corriente y una depreciación de la WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  tasa de cambio real. A pesar de que el impacto de las situaciones externas debilitó su crecimiento, 
Canadá aplicó estímulos de política monetaria y fiscal y logró contener los efectos en su economía.  
4.422.   Vemos también con satisfacción las iniciativas emprendi das por Canadá para la 
diversificación del comercio internacional y la inversión extranjera directa, así como el enfoque 
inclusivo focalizado en la transparencia, el medio ambiente, las PYMES, cuestiones de género y sus 
pueblos aborígenes. También se desta ca el impulso que a través de una nueva política están dando 
al sector del turismo, el cual ha reportado un fuerte crecimiento en los últimos años.  
4.423.   Canadá ha suscrito diversos acuerdos de libre comercio en el período de examen, en el 
marco de los cuales o torga trato arancelario preferencial. También en ellos ha incluido disposiciones 
de propiedad intelectual, tema que ocupa un lugar importante en su política comercial, para lo cual 
cuenta con una nueva estrategia enfocada principalmente en las empresas. En  especial nos parece 
digno de mención la adhesión de Canadá al Tratado de Marrakech para facilitar el acceso de las 
obras impresas a las personas ciegas o con otras discapacidades visuales, representando el 20º 
depósito de instrumento de adhesión que dio p ie a su entrada en vigor el 30 de septiembre de 2016. 
El Salvador había sido el segundo país del mundo en depositar su instrumento de adhesión al tratado.  
4.424.   En el plano bilateral, Canadá y El Salvador establecieron relaciones diplomáticas hace 
57 años y la diáspora salvadoreña en Canadá es una de las más grandes de América Latina. 
Asimismo, ambos países compartimos importantes lazos de cooperación mediante iniciativas 
multilaterales y bilaterales, a través de las cuales Canadá ha brindado apoyo en materia de  seguridad 
y educación.  
4.425.   En cuanto al comercio bilateral, los bienes de doble vía comercializados entre Canadá y 
El Salvador aumentaron 29.6% en 2017. Los productos canadienses exportados a El Salvador 
ascendieron en 2017 a USD 78.6 millones, mientras que las exportaciones salvadoreñas a Canadá 
representaron en 2017 un monto de USD 37.1 millones. El monto total de la inversión directa 
canadiense en El Salvador fue de USD 965 millones en 2016. Como se puede observar, Canadá es 
un socio comercial muy importan te para El Salvador y asignamos gran valor al fortalecimiento de 
dichos lazos comerciales en el futuro.  
4.426.   En el plano multilateral, como lo refleja el informe de la Secretaría, Canad á́ ha intervenido 
activamente en la labor ordinaria de los Comités de la OM C, las negociaciones, la solución de 
diferencias, el ejercicio de vigilancia y las iniciativas plurilaterales. También ha desempeñado una 
función de liderazgo al presidir algunos órganos de la OMC y promover iniciativas como las 
relacionadas con el comerci o y el género en la OMC, as í́ como en su trabajo sobre la reforma de la 
OMC.  
4.427.   Canad á́ ha formalizado su adhesión al Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio (AFC) y ha 
completado los procedimientos y aplicado los compromisos contraídos en el marco de la amp liación 
del Acuerdo sobre Tecnología de la Información (ATI). Finalmente, se destaca el compromiso de 
Canadá con el Sistema Multilateral del Comercio y su cumplimiento regular con las obligaciones en 
materia de transparencia.  
4.428.   Por todo lo anterior, solo nos  resta felicitar a Canadá por sus excelentes resultados, y 
desearle el mayor de los éxitos en este ejercicio.  
GEORGIA  
4.429.   Canada has a diversified and sophisticated economy, with the services sector accounting for 
around 70% of GDP throughout the 2014 -18 revie w period. At the same time, Canada is among 
world's largest producers of natural resources, including timber, oil, gas, minerals, and ores. 
Agriculture, energy and mining remain important drivers of Canadian trade and of its trade policy. 
Among services, r eal estate and wholesale and retail sales have the largest share of GDP.   
4.430.   Canada was the world's tenth -largest economy in 2017, compared to eleventh in 2013. Also, 
in 2017, it was the world's twelfth -largest merchandise exporter – unchanged from 2014. Can ada 
ranked as the world's eighteenth -largest commercial services exporter and the fourteenth -largest 
importer of commercial services, in 2017. These numbers speak for themselves.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.431.   Georgia commends Canada's strong trade expansion that started in the second h alf of 2016 
and in 2017 as the economy responded to stimulative monetary and fiscal policies, which was 
preceded by two years of relatively weak growth in 2015 and first part of 2016. Growth continued 
as well in 2018.  
4.432.   The trade and economic relations betw een Georgia and Canada has shown some fluctuation 
over the years. Even though the last two years demonstrated relative slowdown in trade by 19% 
decrease in trade turnover in 2018 as compared to 2017, the 5 months of this year displayed 13% 
increase in trad e turnover compared to the same period of 2018, which looks promising and brings 
in hopes for the further trade expansion.  
4.433.   The main export commodities that showed significant increase in recent period are wine, 
mineral water and other products revealing i mportant potential for further export enhancement.  
4.434.   The investment flow from Canada to Georgia takes its path since 2006 estimating over 
USD 15 million up to date. Considering Georgia's favourable and liberalized investment climate, 
which is being improved  by means of recent reforms, we are to witness a considerable growth of 
investment capacity in coming years.  
4.435.   It is also crucial to outline that 2 rounds of negotiations on the conclusion of the Agreement 
between Georgia and Canada for the Promotion and Pr otection of Investments have already been 
held and the 3rd round is planned to take place by the end of July in Canada. We hope to finalize 
the negotiations process in near future, as it will serve as a strong incentive to promote bilateral 
investments and  encourage private sector representatives to fully exploit business opportunities in 
both countries.  
4.436.   I am delighted to note that consistent increase of the number of tourists from Canada to 
Georgia (amounted up to about 30 000 in last 5 years) contributes  to the further developing of 
Georgia's tourist sector (8.6 million international visitors since 2014).   
4.437.   In conclusion, I would like to express Georgia's strong willingness to further expand our 
bilateral trade cooperation and diversification in the futur e.  
4.438.   With this, I wish the delegation of Canada a very successful review.  
PANAMÁ  
4.439.   Felicitamos a Canadá por su comprometida participación en la Organización Mundial del 
Comercio y reconocemos sus esfuerzos en reforzar la OMC a través del llamado Grupo de Otta wa, 
con el propósito de fortalecer el sistema multilateral de comercio. No obstante, consideramos que, 
toda la Membresía debería participar en estas discusiones sin importar el tamaño de su comercio.   
4.440.   Canadá es un importante socio comercial de Panamá. y d esde 2013 que entró en vigor el 
tratado de Libre Comercio entre ambas naciones, a la fecha, más del 99% de las líneas se encuentran 
completamente liberalizadas. Igualmente, en año 2018 el comercio entre ambas naciones ascendió 
$115 millones de dólares, sie ndo Canadá un importante exportador de monedas, productos 
agrícolas, papel, válvulas y medicamentos, por su parte, Panamá exporta salmón y productos 
agrícolas a Canadá. También hay comercio entre ambas naciones a través de la Zona Libre de Colón, 
por un mo nto aproximado de USD 25 millones. En cuanto a la Inversión Extranjera Directa (IED), 
Canadá es el tercer país de importancia para Panamá, pues en el año 2017 un 11% de la posición 
del total de la IED es del país norteamericano, por un valor cercano a los USD 5,600 millones.  
4.441.   El comercio en servicios también es importante, toda vez que compañías canadienses en las 
áreas de finanzas y minería se han establecido en Panamá. En Turismo también existe un importante 
intercambio, a través de vuelos directos entre las ciudades de Toron to y Montreal a la Ciudad de 
Panamá y charters a Rio Hato, operada por tres aerolíneas de ambos países, el movimiento de 
pasajeros en 2018 fue de 200,000 pasajeros.  
4.442.   En el ámbito marítimo el comercio canadiense es facilitado por los puertos y el Canal de 
Panamá, brindándole mejor acceso del puerto de Vancouver a los puertos de Europa, así también 
en 2018 las rutas de la costa Este de Canadá a la costa oeste de América Latina y de la costa oeste WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  de Canadá a África aumentaron su intercambio en doble dígitos c olocándose entre las rutas de mayor 
crecimiento ese año por utilizar la ruta del Canal de Panamá.  
4.443.   Felicitamos a Canadá por su sostenido crecimiento económico durante el periodo de examen 
y destacamos su participación en el comercio mundial tanto de mercan cías y servicios, demostrando 
la importancia que este sector ejerce en su economía. Específico a la OMC agradecemos a Canadá 
por su activa participación en grupos de negociación como Facilitación a las Inversiones, Mipymes, 
Empoderamiento de la Mujer y Com ercio Electrónico. Así como su compromiso en las negociaciones 
de subsidios a la pesca y agricultura a través de contribuciones útiles. Por último, nos gustaría 
reconocer la destacada la reciente participación del Embajador De Boer como presidente del Cons ejo 
de Mercancías.  
4.444.   Le deseamos a Canadá éxitos en este TPR.  
HAÏTI  
4.445.   La délégation d'Haïti accueille favorablement la position du Canada, très déterminé à 
soutenir un commerce juste et prévisible par le biais d'un système commercial multilatéral fondé sur 
les règles, moteur du développement et de la croissance économique au niveau mondial.  
4.446.   La délégation d'Haïti salue la politique du Canada pour attirer plus d'investissements 
étrangers. Par contre, elle encourage les autorités du pays à éliminer les mesures re strictives encore 
en vigueur dans certains secteurs.  
4.447.   La délégation d'Haïti a noté l'engagement du Canada à l'Organisation mondiale du commerce 
(OMC) qui est le lieu par excellence pour poursuivre les discussions devant favoriser un 
environnement prévisibl e pour l'examen des contentieux commerciaux et la recherche des solutions 
appropriées comme en attestent ses efforts pour trouver une solution au problème de l'Organe 
d'Appel et son engagement dans les discussions visant la réforme de l'OMC  
4.448.   La délégation d'Haïti apprécie l'appui du Canada à Haïti qui, en tant que Pays moins avancé 
(PMA), bénéficie d'un ensemble de programmes qui permettent au pays d'augmenter sa 
performance dans certains domaines.  
4.449.   La délégation d'Haïti salue le rôle joué par le Canada dan s le domaine de la coopération 
internationale pour répondre notamment aux besoins des pays en développement y compris les 
PMA.  
4.450.   Enfin, la délégation d'Haïti profite pour souhaiter plein succès à la délégation du Canada pour 
cet Examen.  
BÉNIN  
4.451.   La délégation  du Bénin s'associe aux déclarations faites par ses groupes d'appartenance.  
4.452.   La délégation du Bénin félicite le Canada pour les progrès enregistrés depuis le dixième 
Examen de ses politiques et pratiques commerciales en 2015, grâce à des investissements 
stratégiques dans des infrastructures physiques et sociales, dans l'innovation, la science et la 
recherche, l'amélioration des compétences et la formation, mesures ayant renforcé la confiance et 
accru les dépenses à court terme, et qui augurent de bonnes pers pectives en termes d'augmentation 
de la capacité productive de l'économie canadienne.  
4.453.   La solidité de l'économie canadienne, matérialisée par une progression exceptionnelle de 3% 
en 2017, alimente la croissance des recettes fédérales, tout en maintenant un  ratio de la dette au 
PIB orienté à la baisse et protégeant la viabilité à long terme de cette économie. Le taux de chômage 
au Canada est tombé, en 2018, à son plus bas niveau depuis 44 ans.  
4.454.   L'économie canadienne est ouverte, diversifiée et très évoluée, d ans laquelle le commerce 
joue un rôle crucial.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.455.   La délégation du Bénin salue les efforts soutenus du Gouvernement canadien qui lui 
permettent de réagir efficacement aux évolutions internationales avec la poursuite de ses priorités 
à savoir:  
• Appui au systèm e fondé sur les règles;  
• Diversification des exportations;  
• Promotion du commerce inclusive.  
 
4.456.   Douzième exportateur et douzième importateur mondial de marchandises en 2017, le 
Canada s'est hissé au dix -huitième exportateur commercial et quatorzième exportateu r commercial 
de service dans le monde, et représente 2,4% du commerce mondial avec une économie ouverte et 
diversifiée.  
4.457.   Aux plans bilatéral et régional, le Canada continue de déployer d'importants efforts pour 
diversifier ses échanges afin de permettre aux  exportateurs de tirer parti des possibilités offertes 
par les grands marchés émergeants.  
4.458.   Au plan multilatéral, le Canada estime que l'OMC doit rester pertinente et savoir s'adapter à 
un environnement commercial mondial en pleine évolution depuis sa créati on et pour continuer à 
servir de tremplin à la croissance économique par le biais du commerce. Le Canada continue donc 
de chercher à améliorer le Système de règlement des différends pour le rendre plus efficace et plus 
efficient pour tous les Membres.  
4.459.   La délégation du Bénin salue par ailleurs, la contribution de qualité Canada dans les 
négociations et initiatives en cours à l'OMC, notamment dans le commerce électronique et la 
promotion de l'autonomisation des femmes.  
4.460.   Pour terminer, la délégation du Bénin voudrait saluer, au titre de la coopération bilatérale, 
l'excellente coopération qui existe entre le Canada et le Bénin, et qui continue de se renforcer pour 
la lutte contre la pauvreté et la promotion du développement économique et social au Bénin.  
4.461.   La dél égation du Bénin remercie le Secrétariat de l'OMC et le Gouvernement du Canada pour 
les rapports très informatifs élaborés dans le cadre de la présente session d'Examen de politique 
commerciale du pays.  
4.462.   Elle souhaite plein succès au Canada, et un examen ré ussi de sa politique commerciale.  
TRINIDAD  AND  TOBAGO  
4.463.   Throughout the history of our diplomatic contact, the relationship between Trinidad and 
Tobago and Canada has been characterised by cooperation, reciprocity and mutual respect. Bilateral 
collaboration b etween our nations remains strong and vibrant, particularly in the areas of security, 
health, information technology, education, training and agriculture and the environment.  
4.464.   Trinidad and Tobago and Canada enjoy a cordial relationship and we are encouraged  by the 
growth of the Canadian economy during the period under review. We have noted that at the time of 
Canada's last Trade Policy Review (TPR), the global economic situation was quite uncertain, with 
Canada's economic growth being dampened by sharply dec lining oil prices, which affected the 
economy. Trinidad and Tobago's trade relationship with Canada has traditionally been robust and 
the scope of that relationship has expanded over time with Canada becoming one of Trinidad and 
Tobago's top trading partne rs. 
4.465.   We are heartened that Canada recognizes the need to address concerns that trade, and 
globalization do not benefit everyone. Canada is promoting and pursuing an inclusive approach to 
trade as a core approach to address those concerns. We urge Canada to continue to consider the 
development needs of many of its WTO partners and take necessary steps to ensure that this 
Organization's work has an appropriate development dimension. We remain optimistic that Canada 
will be active in supporting developing count ries.   WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.466.   Canada's efforts to support international development in the areas of Trade Facilitation, Aid 
for Trade, Capacity Building, and Recognizing the Needs of Least Developed Countries are 
commendable.  
4.467.   We have noted Canada's Export Diversification Strate gy which commits new resources to 
assist Canadian Small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs) develop export strategies, build global 
partnerships, and gain skills and training needed for global trade.  
4.468.   Allow me to reiterate the significance which Trinidad a nd Tobago attaches to its relations 
with Canada. As we look toward the future, I wish to assure you that Trinidad and Tobago remains 
committed to deepening and enhancing this important partnership, governed by mutual respect, 
cooperation and friendship.  
4.469.   We wish Canada a successful Trade Policy Review.  
JORDAN  
4.470.   We congratulate Canada for the economic growth in the second half of their review period, 
reaching 2% in 2017 and achieving a low unemployment rate in 2018.  
4.471.   Jordan and Canada enjoy excellent bilateral  relations. A free trade agreement between 
Jordan and Canada entered into force in 2012 and bilateral trade grew from USD 7 million in 2012 
to USD 121 million in 2018. Jordanian exports increased from USD 15 million in 2012 to 
USD 75 million in 2018. Canad ian exports to Jordan were USD 62 million in 2012 compared to 
USD 46 million in 2018.  
4.472.   Jordan attaches great importance to its relations with Canada which always hold further 
promising opportunities for both countries.  
4.473.   Finally, we wish Canada all prosperity  and a successful Trade Policy Review.  
ISRAEL  
4.474.   Israel is pleased to note that international trade has continued to play an essential role in 
the Canadian economy, which has largely maintained an open trade regime and has pursued liberal 
trade and investment  policies driven by strong internal demand, economic reforms, domestic 
expenditure and a very successful services sector.  
4.475.   We note that, during the period under review, Canada's trade policy was focused on 
diversifying international trade and foreign direct  investment, focusing on transparency and small 
and medium -sized enterprises, among other topics.  
4.476.   Israel witnessed this directly through the modernization of the Canada -Israel Free Trade 
Agreement, through which Canada and Israel made substantial changes t o the existing FTA. This 
modernized FTA is hopefully bound to increase the already substantial two -way merchandise trade 
between Canada and Israel, which, in 2018, stood at almost USD 2 billion, more than three times 
higher than 20 years ago when the CIFT Agreement came into effect.  
4.477.   I also wish to note the Canada -Israel Industrial Research and Development Fund that serves 
as a platform for the collaboration between Israeli and Canadian companies on issues that relate to 
technology and innovations.  
4.478.   At the mu ltilateral level, Israel values Canada's contribution to the WTO, where we have 
shared values and supported common areas of interest. We have, in addition, collaborated in various 
for a, such as the Friends of the System, and participated in plurilateral i nitiatives such as the ITA 
and, recently, the Joint Initiative on Electronic Commerce and Domestic Regulations.  
4.479.   Canada has also taken a leading role in the ongoing WTO reform work through the Ottawa 
Group, and we are grateful for this. It is Israel's view that Canada has stood firmly as a strong 
advocate of the multilateral trading system throughout the existence of the WTO and especially 
during the period under review.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.480.   In closing, we would like to take this opportunity to, once again, extend our appreciati on 
and wish Canada every success in this Trade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.481.   As one of the world's top trading nations, Canada plays an important role in the multilateral 
trading system and by promoting the principles of fair, predictable and rule -based trade, it acts as 
a champion of the WTO. Moreover, by adopting an inclusive app roach to trade – that is built on 
gender equality, transparency, empowerment of underrepresented groups, consideration of labour 
rights and environment in trade agreements – Canada is setting out commendable examples.  
4.482.   During the review period, Canada's ec onomy has registered solid economic indicators, with 
diversified trade, the two ways trade flows amounting for more than two thirds 2/3 of the GDP and 
increasing investments as the driving forces. As part of its progressive trade agenda, Canada has 
consoli dated and modernized its network of free trade and investment protection and promotion 
agreements.  
4.483.   Canada and Republic of Moldova have enjoyed over 25 years of evolving commercial 
relations and in the two last years only, our bilateral trade flows have dou bled. The main products 
exported include wines (which we hope you all can also try next time you are in Quebec or Ottawa 
alongside with Japanese sake), juices, fresh and dry fruits, nuts and apparel. Moldovan merchandise 
imports from Canada primarily compr ise frozen fish, automobiles, electric machinery, wood, alcohol, 
pharmaceutical products, tanning and dye chemicals and others. At the same time, Canada remains 
an important investor in the Republic of Moldova. Currently there are around 70 enterprises wit h 
Canadian capital operating in Moldova and we aim to encourage and attract more investors in our 
country.   
4.484.   Last year, in Ottawa, our Governments have signed the Foreign Investment Promotion 
Agreement (FIPA) along with a joint declaration on progressive a nd inclusive trade, intended to 
provide greater predictability and certainty for investors, to deepen the economic ties and to expand 
investment opportunities bilaterally.  
4.485.   Our progressive cooperation is also reflected in the work undergone in this house. We highly 
appreciate Canada's engagement in the plurilateral and multilateral initiatives in the WTO, in 
particular, I will emphasize the joint statements on e -commerce, domestic regulation of services, 
investment facilitation and Micro, Small and Medium -Sized Enterprise, the declaration on women 
and economic empowerment, all of which mark important milestones for the WTO negotiations in 
which Canada's contribution is valuable and Republic of Moldova is willing to continue our 
engagement in all of these ini tiatives.  
4.486.   The Republic of Moldova also commends and highly appreciates the Canada's important role 
in the Aid -for-Trade program, capacity building and assistance projects which reaffirms its 
commitment to support development across WTO membership.  
4.487.   My del egation attaches great value to the declared desire of the Canadian authorities to 
protect and build global confidence in the benefits of the liberalized trade and the multilateral system 
that supports it, safeguarding the economic health of all trading na tions.  
4.488.   Before concluding, allow me to congratulate the Canadian delegation on the successfully 
ongoing Trade Policy Review and wish them utmost success in continuing the good work and 
advancing their trade policy endeavours. My country is interested in st rengthening our engagement 
and partnership both on the bilateral and multilateral levels, with a view of enhancing our fruitful 
cooperation.  
PAKISTAN  
4.489.   At the outset, we wish to congratulate Canada on the milestones it has achieved during the 
period under re view.  
4.490.   Pakistan and Canada share excellent bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, economic 
and social sector development with collaboration on a range of issues at the WTO. Bilateral trade WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  between Pakistan and Canada stood at USD 886.95 million in FY 2017-18 with Pakistan having a 
trade deficit of USD 365.71 million. During the first six months of FY 2018 -19 (July -December), 
Pakistan's exports to Canada stood at USD 138.96 million, an increase of 13% as compared to the 
previous period.  
4.491.   Around 68 % of P akistan's exports to Canada are in Pakistan's traditional sectors i.e., Textile 
and Leather articles. Pakistan is the 10th largest exporter of Textile and leather articles to Canada 
and a beneficiary of the Canadian General Preferential Tariff (GPT).  
4.492.   Canada has imposed antidumping duties on export of Carbon Steel Welded Pipes from 
Pakistan. Pakistani exporters have been cooperating fully with Canadian authorities to provide all 
necessary information and we hope that the matter will be resolved amicably.   
4.493.   In the area of services, Pakistan has raised the issue of business visas with Canadian 
authorities in view of a high rejection rate for Pakistani businessmen. At a recent meeting between 
Pakistan's Commerce Minister and Canada's Minister of International T rade and the Minister of 
Immigration Refugees and Citizenship, Canada agreed to reduce the timeframe for visa issuance for 
Pakistani businessmen. Similarly, various travel advisories issued by Canadian authorities have 
hampered Business to business coopera tion and meetings in Pakistan. Pakistan sincerely hopes that 
these issues will be resolved in wake of strengthening future bilateral trade and economic 
cooperation at all levels.  
4.494.   Pakistan and Canada cooperate on a range of issues at the WTO, particularly as part of the 
Cairns group in Agriculture negotiations and as Friends of the System. We wish to particularly 
highlight the positive and active role played by Canada at the WTO under the leadership of 
Ambassador Stephen de Boer for his efforts to advance d iscussions on improving and safeguarding 
the multilateral rules -based trade system.  
4.495.   We wish Canada success in its future endeavours to achieve its targets for economic growth, 
prosperity and global integration and look forward for greater collaboration to wards our shared 
goals.  
4.496.   At the end, we wish Canada a very successful and fruitful TPR.  
NIGERIA  
4.497.   Since the last review, Canada, has maintained one of the most liberal trade and investment 
regimes globally, which serves as the backbone of its successful integ ration into the global economy. 
We note from the Secretariat report, that between 2015 and 2018, the economy of Canada grew at 
an average of 3.0% in 2017 and 2018 1.8%. It is also worthy of note that Canada has achieved a 
high standard of living for its po pulation, with its GDP per capita in nominal terms at USD 46,182 in 
2018. In this regard, Canada should be commended for sustaining these characteristics, 
strengthened by an open trade and investment regime and supported by transparent regulatory 
settings.  Therefore, Nigeria, like other WTO members, can benefit from Canada's remarkable 
achievements, which illustrates how an open trade and investment regime is crucial in harnessing 
the benefits of global integration.  
4.498.   We are encouraged to note that consistent ly, Canada takes its rights and obligations in the 
WTO seriously. For example, by actively participating in the regular work of the WTO committees, 
negotiations, dispute settlement, monitoring, and plurilateral initiatives. Canada has continually 
played a leadership role in the area of trade and gender in the WTO and also duly notified the WTO 
of its acceptance of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in 2016. Nigeria is also strongly 
committed to the seamless implementation of the TFA, in the context of t he ongoing reforms by the 
Government, including improvements in the business environment, especially, ease of doing 
business. In this regard, there are useful lessons to be learnt from Canada's experience.  
4.499.   Nigeria is pleased to note the strong commitment of Canada in taking a balanced and 
progressive approach to strengthen the functions of the WTO and preserve its credibility and 
relevance. We both share these core objectives. As partners, Canada should be commended for its 
active engagements, with open mi nd and pragmatic approach, in the joint initiatives; such as 
domestic regulation on Trade and Services, e -commerce, investment facilitation for development, WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  and MSMES. The most recent Joint Statement on Domestic Regulation was co -sponsored by Nigeria 
and w as officially signed by 56 WTO Members through their Ministers at Paris. Nigeria shares the 
view that such Joint initiatives seeks to complement the multilateralism and not undermine it.  
4.500.   Notwithstanding its achievements, as noted in the Secretariat report , Canada is faced with 
some economic challenges, notably, its exposure to the global market has indeed created a 
permanent challenge to improve the competitiveness of the Canadian economy. We are mindful of 
these challenges, mentioned in the Secretariat re port. However, we are happy to note that the 
Authorities of Canada are already implementing appropriate measures, as well as taking action 
necessary, to address some of these challenges.  
4.501.   In conclusion, my delegation would continue to work closely with Cana da and the rest of the 
membership during this period. We are confident that Canada, would continue to play its role as an 
active player and make its contributions according to its capacity.  
4.502.   We wish Canada a successful 11th TPR review exercise and congratu late the entire 
delegation for their engagement.  
JAMAICA  
4.503.   Jamaica has had a longstanding and mutually -beneficial relationship with Canada over the 
years on multiple fronts.  
4.504.   Canada is also home to a large Jamaican diaspora and is one of the leading contribut ors to 
the high tourism flows to the island each year.  
4.505.   In terms of bilateral trade, Canada is around third among Jamaica's main export markets, 
with exports amounting to USD 207 million in 2018. In that same year, Jamaica's import bill from 
Canada was valued at approximately USD 127 million. Jamaica's main exp orts to Canada include: 
alumina, beverages, and non -traditional food items. Among Jamaica's main imports from Canada 
are food, vegetables, machinery and transport equipment, and manufactured goods. Jamaica has 
consistently maintained a trade surplus with C anada since the early 1980s, mainly due to the exports 
of alumina.  
4.506.   It is important to note the mutually -beneficial nature of CARIBCAN, under which substantial 
imports from Canada continue to enter Jamaica. Through CARIBCAN, the Canadian market has 
contrib uted significantly to Jamaica's objective of expanding and diversifying its exports, increasing 
employment, and increasing value added for exports, as outlined in its National Export Strategy. 
Given that at least 80% of jobs in Jamaica are linked to trade,  and most Jamaican exporters to 
Canada operate small and medium enterprises, Jamaica's trading relationship with Canada 
significantly contributes to increasing levels of enterprise development and entrepreneurship and 
major policy thrust of the Government of Jamaica.  
4.507.   Jamaica therefore looks forward to the continued operation of CARIBCAN in the years ahead, 
particularly in terms of helping Jamaica to attain the targets set out in its National Development 
Plan, Vision 2030, as well as the 2030 Agenda for Sust ainable Development.  
4.508.   We note from the reports that agriculture, energy and mining remain important drivers of 
Canadian trade and of its trade policy, with the services sector accounting for around 70% of GDP. 
Jamaica is therefore of the view that services will remain a very important area of trade between 
both countries for the foreseeable future, and thus strongly encourages the further development of 
bilateral trade in this important sector.  
4.509.   Canada continues to be an important development partner for Jama ica, at both the national 
and regional levels. Jamaica is therefore appreciative of the support that the Government of Canada 
has given over the years on various initiatives, and we look forward to strengthening our partnership 
with Canada in these and oth er areas in the future.  
4.510.   We further commend Canada for its active engagement within the WTO, including the 
negotiations on fishery subsidies and agriculture, the Joint Statement Initiatives on E -Commerce, 
investment facilitation and MSMEs, as well as ongoin g discussions on WTO reforms.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  4.511.   Canada has also provided general support through trade facilitation, aid for trade, and 
capacity building initiatives geared towards assisting developing country Members like Jamaica and 
least-developed Members within the WTO participate more effectively within the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.512.   Jamaica firmly believes that Canada, as one of the world's leading economies, continues to 
be an important player, crucial to the preservation and effective operation of the multilateral 
rules-based trading system. In this regard, Jamaica highly values the assurances given by Canada 
of its continued commitment to an open, inclusive and rules -based multilateral system, with the 
WTO at its core, and we look forward to working closer with Can ada and other Members to promote 
a system that fonctions optimally and yields trade benefits for all, including an improved quality of 
life for all our citizens.  
4.513.   In conclusion, we, once again, commend Canada and extend our best wishes for a successful 
review. 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF CANADA AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
5.1.  Canada would like to thank the WTO Members who participated on Wednesday in our 11th 
Trade Policy Review. We very much welcome the feedback on our trade policies and practices, and 
also the insight into our longstanding bilateral trade and economic relationships with many WTO 
Members. The Trade Policy Review is an important exercise, and we will reflect carefully on the 
helpful feedback that has been provided by Members.  
5.2.  Canada is encoura ged by the many Members who voiced their support for Canada's inclusive 
approach to trade, which seeks to ensure that underrepresented groups – including SMEs, women 
and Indigenous peoples - can engage in and benefit from trade and investment opportunities . 
Inclusive trade supports economic growth that is more broadly shared and maintains public 
confidence in an open, rules -based trading system.  
5.3.  We also took note of the number of Members who commented on Canada's efforts on 
notification – we are working har d on this front, and will continue to do so, reflective of Canada's 
ongoing commitment to transparency. Canada is always ready to assist the Secretariat and other 
Members to support fulfilment of the WTO transparency obligations.  
5.4.  There were also many Membe rs which referenced Canada's active engagement in advancing 
various ongoing initiatives at the WTO – such the fisheries subsidies negotiations which are taking 
place this week and the joint statement initiative on e -commerce. These initiatives provide impo rtant 
opportunities to update WTO rules to reflect 21st century realities.  
5.5.  Given the contribution that bilateral and regional FTAs and bilateral investment treaties make 
to the rules -based trading system, Canada was struck by the number of Members who ment ioned 
the highly positive impact that such agreements have had in growing our bilateral trade and 
investment relationships. Increasing market access and providing strong frameworks to foster trade 
and investment benefit both Canada – as a trade -dependent e conomy – and our diverse trading 
partners, and assist us in our efforts to diversify global markets.  
5.6.  Many Members who spoke highlighted Canada's visible commitment to the WTO, including on 
the important topic of WTO reform. I too would like to recognize t he efforts of Canada's dedicated 
Mission here in Geneva – Ambassador de Boer and his team work hard every day to advance 
Canada's engagement on WTO and WTO reform issues.  
5.7.  We have received over 650 written questions to date and have already answered those 
questions which came in at the beginning of the week, in addition to the responses provided to 
questions received before the TPR. We are committed to answering promptly those questions which 
have come in more recently as well as any additional questions, wi thin the next few weeks.   
5.8.  Please allow me now to provide some reactions to several key areas where Members have 
expressed concerns.  
Trade remedies  
5.9.  A number of you noted the increase in anti -dumping and countervailing measures that Canada 
has put in place. It is worth pointing out that there were a similar number of initiations in the previous 
review period, but that there are more measures in force n ow due to the cumulative nature of the 
measures. The increase in AD and CVD measures in force is the result of an increase in industry 
petitions and is consistent with global trends over this period. Furthermore, the measures which 
Canada has taken are pri marily limited to a narrow range of products that may be affected by 
underlying issues of concern – such as global steel overproduction capacity.   
5.10.   Anti-dumping and countervailing measures are legitimate tools to address situations where 
trading practices of foreign firms or Governments are causing – or threatening to cause – injury to 
our domestic industry. Importantly for any measures taken by Canada – Canadian investigations, 
including global safeguard investigations, are conducted by arm's length bodies  in a transparent and 
impartial manner, in accordance with WTO rules.   WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  Agriculture  
5.11.   L'agriculture est aussi un thème récurrent dans les commentaires et questions d'un grand 
nombre de Membres.  
5.12.   En ce qui concerne l'agriculture, nous continuons à libéraliser notre marché de manière 
multilatérale, bilatérale, et unilatérale. Nous avons fait de grands progrès par rapport à la réduction 
de nos tarifs agricoles depuis notre dernier Examen des politiques commerciales. La proportion des 
lignes tarifaires  agricoles en franchise de droits en vertu de la Nation la plus favorisée (NPF) a 
augmenté de 59,6% à 68,5% depuis 2015. En 2017, le Canada a aussi mis en œuvre une élimination 
unilatérale de droits de douane, qui incluait l'élimination de tarifs intra -contingents couvrant une 
variété d'ingrédients importés pour la transformation agroalimentaire.  
5.13.   Plusieurs commentaires ont aussi été émis sur le système de la gestion de l'offre du Canada, 
qui fournit aux producteurs laitiers, de volaille et d'œufs l'opportun ité de récolter le juste fruit de 
leur labeur et de leurs investissements et permet aux consommateurs d'avoir accès à un 
approvisionnement constant en produits de haute qualité. Le Canada fournit un accès aux marchés 
appréciable pour les produits qui sont sous gestion de l'offre via ses engagements à l'OMC et a 
récemment augmenté ses niveaux d'engagements en matière d'accès aux marchés en établissant 
des contingents tarifaires sous l'AECG (CETA), et le PTPGP (CPTPP). Le Canada est aussi dans le 
processus de  mise en œuvre d'accès aux marchés additionnel sous l'ACEUM (CUSMA). L'ACEUM 
contient également de nouvelles dispositions de transparence relative à la fixation du prix du lait qui 
s'appliquent à la fois au Canada et aux États -Unis. 
5.14.   Le Canada a récemment a nnoncé des mesures de soutien pour aider ses producteurs laitiers, 
de volaille et d'œufs à s'adapter aux nouveaux accords commerciaux. Le Canada travaille à la mise 
en œuvre de ce nouvel engagement de manière à respecter ses obligations commerciales 
intern ationales.  
5.15.   Pour ce qui est de l'élimination des subventions à l'exportation, le Canada a retiré de sa liste 
d'engagement le blé, les céréales secondaires, les oléagineux, les tourteaux, l'huile végétale, et les 
légumes à la fin de l'année 2015. Les subvent ions à l'exportation restantes seront éliminées d'ici la 
fin de l'année 2020, en conformité avec la décision ministérielle de Nairobi sur la concurrence à 
l'exportation. Tel que mentionné par plusieurs Membres mercredi, les négociations visant à renforcer 
les règles et à restreindre la capacité des Membres à fournir des mesures de soutien interne agricole 
qui faussent la production et les échanges, sont un enjeu clé des discussions sur la réforme dans le 
secteur de l'agriculture et demeurent une priorité po ur le Canada. Le Canada entend maintenir son 
leadership au niveau technique en vue de la prochaine Conférence ministérielle en juin 2020.  
5.16.   Concernant les craintes exprimées vis -à-vis le Partenariat canadien pour l'agriculture, nous 
désirons préciser que le  Partenariat comprend plusieurs programmes respectant les critères de la 
catégorie verte de l'Accord sur l'agriculture, y compris le programme agri -stabilité, ainsi qu'une suite 
de programmes mis en œuvre afin de favoriser une croissance innovatrice et dur able du secteur, 
soutenir la diversité et un secteur dynamique en évolution et intensifier le commerce et élargir l'accès 
aux marchés.  
5.17.   Le Canada est conscient du retard accumulé concernant ses notifications de soutien interne 
en agriculture, et travaille a ctivement à améliorer ses processus internes pour la préparation des 
notifications.  
Investment Canada Act/review  
5.18.   A number of Members noted concerns with the Investment Canada Act. The Investment 
Canada Act is Canada's primary mechanism for reviewing forei gn investments in Canada. Its purpose 
is twofold: to review significant foreign investments to determine if they are likely to be of net benefit 
to Canada; and to review foreign investments that could be injurious to national security.  
5.19.   Since Canada's last  TPR, the Act was amended to improve transparency – including a statutory 
obligation to report annually on the administration of national security provisions, as well as 
publishing the national security review guidelines, which include a non -exhaustive lis t of the factors 
considered in assessing a proposed investment.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  5.20.   Understanding that acquisitions by State -Owned Enterprises can pose unique concerns, the 
SOE Guidelines under the Investment Canada Act provide that issues of state influence, control and 
comm ercial orientation are examined as part of net benefit reviews. Canada also applies a different 
threshold for review of acquisitions by SOEs as compared to private investments. Canada has 
welcomed extensive investments by SOEs under the Investment Canada A ct and will continue to 
welcome SOE investments that are commercially motivated and of likely net benefit to Canada.  
5.21.   As many delegates noted on Wednesday, the Government of Canada has recently taken 
several steps to improve Canada's investment climate and  implemented several measures to 
increase Canada's ability to attract and facilitate high -impact foreign direct investment and the jobs 
that come with it, including through Invest in Canada.   
5.22.   As attested in some Member interventions, Canadian companies ar e also significant investors 
abroad – in many sectors and markets – and this drives our efforts to improve transparency and 
predictability through a rules -based global investment regime.  
Log export restraints  
5.23.   Canada notes the comments made by some Members  regarding its log export programs. 
Canada's log export processes are administered in a transparent and efficient manner. In British 
Columbia, approvals processes for logs do not constitute a restriction on exports as almost all of 
fibre subject to a surpl us evaluation is deemed eligible for export.  
Intellectual property  
5.24.   Canada is committed to maintaining a sound and efficient intellectual property (IP) regime 
that is conducive to innovation, investment, and economic growth. As a part of this commitment, 
since 2015, Canada has modernized all of its key IP statutes including the Patent Act, Copyright Act, 
Industrial Designs Act, and Trade -marks Act, the latter of which included extensive legislative 
reforms to expand Canada's open geographical indications reg ime. Additionally, Canada's IP 
Strategy launched in April 2018 further complements Canada's regime by developing new IP tools 
for businesses, increasing awareness with respect to IP protection, and countering IP misuse that 
harms both consumers and busines ses.   
Government Pograms for Business   
5.25.   Some WTO Members raised questions about Canada's government programs for supporting 
business, such as the CanExport program provided by Canada's Trade Commissioner Service. The 
Canadian Trade Commissioner Service is  equivalent to a trade promotion organization combined 
with an investment attraction agency. Its mandate is to help companies navigate international 
markets and help attract foreign direct investment to Canada. The main role of Canada's trade 
commissioners , located in over 160 cities worldwide, is to provide companies with business insights 
and access to international contacts.  
5.26.   The CanExport program provides limited funding to small and medium -sized enterprises of 
any given industry for activities such as m arket research and travel to trade fairs in order to develop 
new export markets. Given the pre -export focus of the program, the support provided is non -trade 
distorting.  
Temporary Entry  
5.27.   Canada takes note of the concerns raised with respect to acquiring wo rk permits for foreign 
professionals. Canada manages labour mobility through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program 
(TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). Both serve as tools for employers to address 
labour market needs, and to reinforce Canada 's economic growth.  
5.28.   The TFWP ensures that Canadians and permanent residents have first access to available 
jobs. This is done through the Labour Market Impact Assessment, which requires that employers 
look locally before seeking to meet their human resourc e needs abroad. More recently, the TFWP, 
and as part of the Global Skills Strategy (GSS), introduced the Global Talent Stream (GTS) which 
expedites the processing of LMIAs for in -demand occupations principally in IT, science and WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  engineering for multination al innovative corporations seeking to establish and grow their operations 
in Canada.   
5.29.   In its first two years, over 40,000 people have taken advantage of the Global Skills Strategy, 
including nearly 24,000 highly skilled workers in occupations such as comp uter programming, 
information system analysis and software engineering.  
Development  
5.30.   I want to acknowledge comments made by some Members on Canada's engagement with 
respect to trade and development, including Aid for Trade and preferential treatment for LDC s. 
Canada firmly believes that trade is and must continue to be an engine of growth for all Members of 
the Organization. As highlighted in our report, development provisions in WTO rules are intended to 
foster the ability of developing countries to become full participants in the multilateral trading system 
and to help them reap the benefits of WTO membership. Going forward, we must reflect on how we 
incorporate development considerations in trade rules in our discussions in a renewed manner, and 
we welcome  all Members' engagement on this fundamental aspect of the Organization. We intend 
to continue to work with Members to implement new WTO agreements in a manner that addresses 
legitimate concerns of developing countries while maintaining the integrity of th e system.  
Conclusion  
5.31.   In conclusion Mr. Chair, please let me reiterate that Canada is a trading nation. In the face of 
global uncertainty on trade, we continue to pursue economic growth through trade liberalization, as 
well as diversification of our export s into global markets. We firmly believe our international trade 
relationships are mutually beneficial, and, with our inclusive approach to trade, we are seeking to 
ensure that these benefits are widely shared in our own society, and in those of our tradin g partners. 
The more our citizens can see the benefits and opportunities flowing from trade and investment 
opportunities, the more confidence they will have in the open, rules -based trading system – with 
the WTO at its core.  
5.32.   I would like to thank WTO Members once again for your thorough and insightful comments, 
as well as our Chair, Ambassador Teehankee, and Ambassador Gonzalez, our discussant. Finally, I 
would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for your diligent work in p reparing the report for this 
review.  
5.33.   Mr Chair, I understand that today is an important day here in Switzerland, and we would need 
to be efficient with our time, as many Swiss women will be walking out at 3:23 this afternoon, 
reducing their work day by 20%,  to symbolize the 20% wage gap that currently persists between 
men and women in the workplace.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.34.   Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to start by thanking and congratulating the Canadian 
delegation led by Ms. Kendal Hembroff for their commitment to this transparency exercise, your 
constructive and open approach, and for providing complete and timely replies to the more than 
600 questions received for this TPR.  
5.35.   I would also like to commend Canada for choosing the alternative timeframe for its Trad e 
Policy Review, as it provides further time and useful information to Members to prepare their 
feedback to the Member under review.  
5.36.   I have organized my closing remarks around the following four broad topics as I took note of 
our discussion on Wednesday wh ere more than 50 delegations took the floor, and one more today, 
which are: the economic environment; the trade and investment regimes; trade policies and 
practices; and Canada's role in the WTO.  
5.37.   On the economic environment, Members recognized the good eco nomic performance of the 
Canadian economy thanks to its countercyclical fiscal policies among other factors. GDP growth has 
been moderate, inflation low, the federal government debt to GDP ratio has remained relatively 
stable, and the current account defic it has declined.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  5.38.   Members also noted the diversification and sophistication of the Canadian economy, 
underlying its global standing in size, its participation in trade, and the abundance of natural 
resources.  
5.39.   As for the trade and investment regimes, many Me mbers highlighted Canada's inclusive 
approach to trade, with its focus on transparency, labour rights, the environment, small and medium 
size enterprises, gender, and indigenous peoples.  
5.40.   Canada's active trade negotiation agenda was also acknowledged, both  for the new 
agreements such as CETA, CPTPP and the Canada -Ukraine FTA, as well as for the modernization of 
existing ones such as the Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement and the bilateral FTAs with Israel 
and Chile. In some cases, it was noted by Members , and something that might be worth to follow 
up on, the potential impact of some of these Agreements on third parties, as well as the systemic 
implications of some of their provisions as they get implemented.  
5.41.   With regards to Foreign Direct Investment, Me mbers recognized the reforms made to facilitate 
and promote inward investment, but at the same time expressed concerns about the persistence of 
restrictions in some sectors, a subject of attention in previous TPRs.  
5.42.   On trade policies and practices, although  there was an overall positive assessment of Canada 
as an open economy, several elements were raised as areas for consideration or further 
improvement.  
5.43.   First of all, as compared with previous reviews, the increase in the use of trade remedies by 
Canada wa s noted.  
5.44.   Also, the agriculture sector continued to be a focus of attention from Members as in previous 
TPRs, due to different instruments such as tariff rate quotas, tariff escalation, tariff peaks, non -ad 
valorem tariffs, and the support and supply -manag ement system, in particular related to eggs 
poultry and dairy products.  
5.45.   Similarly, several Members raised the issue of national treatment of alcoholic beverages, and 
called for the adoption of non -discriminatory measures consistent with WTO commitments.  
5.46.   As for Canada's role in the WTO, it was widely praised as an example for fulfilling its 
notification obligations.  
5.47.   Also, the ratification of the TFA, the implementation of ITA, and the support of Canada to 
developing countries and LDCs through preferential t ariff treatment and other mechanisms such as 
the TFA Facility and Aid for Trade was commended.  
5.48.   Furthermore, Members highlighted the role played by Canada in the Ottawa Group to promote 
and facilitate dialogue on how to strengthen the multilateral trading s ystem.  
5.49.   Canada's active participation in ongoing WTO negotiations, especially on fisheries subsidies, 
as well as its role in supporting the work of the Joint Initiatives, in particular leading the discussions 
on trade and gender, were also recognized.  
5.50.   Finally, I would like to highlight the widespread importance expressed by Members with 
respect to their bilateral relationship with Canada, and their interest in deepening their economic 
and trading ties with this Member of the WTO.  
5.51.   Mr. Chairman, in closing, I  wish to thank you for inviting me to act as discussant in this TPR 
in my personal capacity. It has been an honour and a pleasure to do so. I wish to congratulate again 
the Canadian delegation for their active participation in this TPR, and wish to the one s returning 
home a very safe and happy return, hopefully after enjoying some of Geneva's sunshine by the lake.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  NEPAL  
5.52.   It is appreciable that economic fundamentals of Canada are encouraging. During the review 
period (2015 -18), the Canadian economy was char acterized by moderate GDP growth, low inflation, 
a relatively stable federal government debt -to-GDP ratio, a declining current account deficit, among 
others. Similarly, having a diversified and sophisticated economy, with the services sector 
accounting for  around 70% of GDP, one of the world's largest producers of several natural resources, 
including timber, oil, gas, minerals, and ores, Canada's agriculture, energy and mining remain 
important drivers of Canadian trade and of its trade policy. It is encoura ging to note that the export 
sector of Canada creates one in six job.  
5.53.   We would like to appreciate that Canada has been providing 98.6% preferential tariff 
treatment unilaterally for the LDCs since 1983. In addition to duty -free quota -free market access, 
Canada also applies preferential rules of origin to LDC.  
5.54.   Nepal and Canada enjoy excellent bilateral relations ever since the establishment of diplomatic 
relations on in 1965. The relations between the two countries are based on cordiality, goodwill, 
mutual  understanding and cooperation. We appreciate the support of Canada in socio economic 
development of Nepal including the support provided during the devastating earth quake of 2015. 
Regarding export trade performance between Nepal and Canada, the latter en joys the surplus in 
total trade. As of 2017, the total value of export of Nepal to Canada is Rs 8 million and value of 
export of Canada to Nepal is about Rs 90 million. Regarding the items of trade, Nepal exports to 
Canada mainly carpets, garments and hand icrafts while Canada exports machinery, electronic 
equipment, medical equipment and parts and so on.  
5.55.   Though the goods trade between two countries is not encouraging, there is enormous 
opportunities to for the partnership in services trade including tourism , ICT, health, education, 
among others.  
5.56.   Since Nepal has undergone the state restructuring, including formation of new constitution, 
election under the federal system and stability to the Government which have created highly 
conducive environment for the i nvestment and technology transfer in hydro power, digital and 
physical infrastructure development, agriculture, among others. As Nepal is celebrating 2020 as 
"Visit Year", may I take this opportunity to cheer the government officials and people of Canada t o 
visit beautiful Nepal for having lifetime experience.  
5.57.   We value the relationship between the two countries and expect strengthened partnership for 
our socio -economic development. We wish Canada a great success for the Trade Policy Review.  
UKRAINE  
5.58.   At the outset, Ukraine would like to thank the Canadian delegation for its fruitful and 
constructive participation in this Trade Policy Review, in particular, for the comprehensive responses 
to the Ukraine's written questions.  
5.59.   We also would like to express our si ncere appreciation to Ms. Kendal Hembroff, Head of 
Canadian delegation, for the systemic and in -depth analyses of the Members' concerns and 
comments and to the discussant Ambassador Juan Carlos Gonzalez for the helpful profound 
comments delivered this morn ing. 
5.60.   We don't have any specific follow -up questions to pose. Nevertheless, the issues of improving 
market access for agricultural products are of paramount importance for Ukraine and from the 
systemic point of view we are interested in further intensificat ion of cooperation in this area.  
5.61.   Ukraine is willing to work closely with Canada both on bilateral track under the 
Canada -Ukraine Free Trade Agreement and through the discussions in the WTO, sharing the common 
objectives of maintaining and strengthening the  multilateral trading system.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.62.   Let me first thank Canada for the comprehensive overview presented last Wednesday and 
this morning of the main developments occurred in its trade and economic policy during the review 
period.  
5.63.   We would also like to thank Canada for having provided timely replies to the questions raised 
by the EU. The answers gave some useful clarifications on the issues we had raised.  
5.64.   On a limited number of issues, we had additional follow -up questions which have been 
transmi tted to Canada or have already been discussed bilaterally. In this regard, we look forward to 
continuing our cooperation with Canada in the framework of the CETA, including about resolving 
some of our concerns in that context.  
5.65.   The discussion on the first d ay of the review has shown that many Members share the EU's 
positive views about the constructive role that Canada plays within the WTO and in international 
trade. Allow me here to pay a special tribute again to the excellent cooperation that there is betw een 
the EU Mission, Ambassador De Boer, John O'Neill and the team.  
5.66.   We are also looking forward to our continued cooperation in all the relevant multilateral and 
plurilateral fora.  
5.67.   On behalf of the EU, I would like to congratulate again Canada for concludin g this productive 
and successful review.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.68.   The delegation of the United States wishes to express its appreciation to Director General 
Kendal Hembroff for her excellent stewardship of Canada's Trade Policy Review. We also wish to 
recognize and e xpress our appreciation for the extensive efforts made by Canada's Geneva Mission 
and other government officials to respond to the questions raised by Members during this Review.  
5.69.   To Ambassador Gonzalez, we thank you for your insightful remarks which helped  guide us 
through this Review, and we greatly appreciate the work of the Secretariat staff in preparing the 
policy review documents that made these discussions possible.  
5.70.   We thank Director General Hembroff for her remarks this morning and her efforts to add ress 
the comments offered by Members during this Review. In particular, we appreciate the remarks 
acknowledging Members' questions related to supply management and interest in Canada's 
intellectual property regime.  
5.71.   The active participation of Members in th is Trade Policy Review only serves to highlight the 
keen interest we share in trade -related developments in Canada.  
5.72.   The United States submitted a number of written questions and we appreciate the timely 
responses we have received. The responses will be he lpful to us as we continue our engagement 
with Canada, bilaterally, regionally and here at the WTO.  
5.73.   We have also submitted follow -up questions related to agriculture, to clarify some of Canada's 
earlier responses, and we look forward to Canada's written re sponses.  
5.74.   As the United States noted in our questions and statement, we remain interested in updates 
to Canada's intellectual property regime. We are concerned that certain federal and provincial 
measures governing the sale of alcohol in Canada discriminate  against imported goods, and that 
high tariffs on dairy products restrict competition from the United States and other Members. We 
will continue to engage on these and other important issues.  
5.75.   In conclusion, we appreciate the opportunity to participate in Canada's eleventh Trade Policy 
Review. We offer our congratulations to Director General Hembroff and her team on a useful and 
successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/W/ 168 • Canada  
 
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  CHINA  
5.76.   Like other Members, China att aches great importance to the TPR. We appreciate the 
opportunity to participate in this Review and provide our concerns to Canada.  
5.77.   We appreciate the replies provided by Canada and we will further study them.  
5.78.   In closing, we congratulate Canada's delegation for a successful TPR.  
MS. KENDAL  HEMBROFF  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.79.   I don't have too much to add. Certainly, we have very much appreciated the opportunity to 
be able to participate in our eleventh Trade Policy Review. This has been a very fruitful exchange 
over the last few days, and certainly we look forward to continuing to work with WTO Members as 
we find ways to be able to refine and improve our trade policies.  
5.80.   I think the only comment that I would make is just to thank everyone here who has actively 
partici pated in this process since the Secretariat and Government reports were share with all 
Members. So, we look forward to doing this again in another five years' time.  
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This eleventh Trade Policy Review of Canada has ind eed allowed us to understand the important 
developments in the economic, trade and investment regime of Canada over the last four years. I 
would like to thank the Canadian delegation headed by Ms. Kendal Hembroff, Director General, Trade 
Negotiations, Glob al Affairs Canada, for their very active participation and engagement in this 
exercise. I would also like to thank our discussant, Ambassador Juan Carlos Gonzalez, Permanent 
Representative of Colombia to the WTO, for his remarks and insightful words that h ave propelled 
these discussions, as well as the 53 delegations which took the floor during this meeting.  
6.2.  Members commended Canada for its overall solid economic performance. They noted that 
during the review period the Canadian economy has been characteriz ed by moderate but improving 
GDP growth, low inflation, a relatively stable federal government debt to GDP ratio, and a declining 
current account deficit. The economy had adjusted to lower oil prices and the ensuing deterioration 
of its terms of trade thro ugh the implementation of stimulative monetary and fiscal policies. We also 
noted that the unemployment rate, at 5.8%, was at its lowest level in over 40 years. By maintaining 
an open and competitive economy, Canada had achieved a high standard of living f or its population, 
with GDP per capita exceeding USD 46,000 in 2018.  
6.3.  Members commended Canada's work in the WTO, in particular its leadership role in many 
areas, including the Ottawa Group to further WTO reform. Members also praised Canada for its 
contrib ution to the regular work of Committees and for its commitment to strengthen the multilateral 
trading system overall. Several Members noted that Canada was pioneering the pursuit of an 
inclusive trade agenda by taking into account the particular needs of w omen, MSMEs, and Indigenous 
peoples in its trade and related policies. Members also appreciated Canada's track record in providing 
timely notifications to the WTO. Several Members showed appreciation for Canada's support of 
least-developed countries, parti cularly with respect to the Aid -for-Trade and Trade Facilitation 
initiatives.  
6.4.  Members also noted the importance of trade for Canada, with aggregate two -way commercial 
trade flows equivalent to 65% of GDP. Members acknowledged Canada's efforts to diversify its trade, 
as exemplified by the recently launched Export Diversification Strategy.  
6.5.  The reports and Members' interventions noted that not only had Canada continued to pursue 
liberalization initiatives in the WTO, as for example, the ITA, fisheries' subsidi es, agriculture, 
domestic regulation, and others; it had also been active in pursuing new bilateral or plurilateral 
agreements during the period. Additional market access, as well as the new disciplines incorporated 
into the EU -Canada Comprehensive and Tra de Agreement (CETA), the Canada -Ukraine Free Trade 
Agreement (CUFTA), the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the 
Canada -United States -Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), were all expected to have a further positive 
impact on trade, i nvestment, and employment for Canada in the future. The modernization of 
existing FTAs was also noted as an important development.  
6.6.  On investment, Members highlighted the importance of an open and transparent investment 
regime as FDI played an important rol e in the Canadian economy. While there had been some 
liberalization of investment during the review period, many inquired about longstanding restrictions 
and hoped these could be addressed. Some Members also noted that they were recipients of 
Canadian outw ard investments, from which they both mutually benefitted.  
6.7.  Members appreciated the implementation of changes to Canada's internal trade regime as the 
Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT) had been replaced by the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) 
in 2017. N ot only was this expected to bring about improvements in domestic market access and 
other efficiencies, but it would better align Canada's domestic regime with commitments in its 
international agreements.  
6.8.  Members noted that Canada's average MFN applied tar iff had remained relatively stable at 
6.1% in 2019 and that the number of duty -free tariff lines had increased since the last review, to 
over 70%. This was partly due to unilateral MFN liberalization under ITA II. However, averages 
continued to differ cons iderably between agricultural and non -agricultural goods. Canada was 
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  streamlined border processes through various programmes, and some noted that improvements in 
this area were still possible.  
6.9.  Some Members expressed concern about national treatment issues in Canada's regime relating 
to the taxation and sale of alcoholic beverages. It was noted that reduced or zero excise taxes 
applied to domestic brewers and to wine ma de entirely from Canadian -grown agricultural products. 
In addition, importation, inter -provincial/territorial trade, and retail sale of alcoholic beverages 
remained the exclusive business of provincial and territorial Liquor Control Authorities, which did not 
always guarantee a fair and competitive environment.   
6.10.   Members noted that Canada is an active user of trade remedy measures, and that recourse 
to them had risen during the review period, as witnessed by the increase in the number of measures 
in place. They called on Canada to show restraint in the use of these measures and they also queried 
Canada with respect to legislative changes introduced during the review period. We note and thank 
Canada for their direct responses to this concern of Members and I hope more dialogue can take 
place in this area.  
6.11.   Noting that Canada was a major player in agricultural trade, some Members were of the view 
that Canada's agricultural sector was characterized by numerous commodities in which Canada was 
a globally competitiv e exporter, but also by inward -looking supply management systems applicable 
to dairy, eggs, and poultry. Canada's supply management was underpinned by imports subject to 
tariff quotas, high out -of-quota tariffs averaging 238.7% for dairy, and pricing arran gements and 
restraints on domestic producers that distorted competition. Canada was encouraged to be 
transparent in its dairy pricing policies and any new assistance provided to dairy farmers and 
processors, and to undertake further domestic reforms to dem onstrate Canada's commitment to 
global reform of agricultural trade.  
6.12.   Canada received over 650 written questions and has provided timely replies to most of them, 
of which Members were highly appreciative. This TPR will be successfully concluded once replies  to 
the follow -up questions are received in one month's time. The large number of questions and active 
engagement by over 50 delegations is testament to the importance of Canada to the multilateral 
trading system and it is clear that Canada has been a stro ng supporter of the multilateral trading 
system and the TPR process in both its words and actions. The Trade Policy Review Mechanism 
indeed has a role for engendering constructive dialogue among Members and in increasing 
transparency. May I then add my wor d of congratulations to Canada on the successful conclusion of 
this Trade Policy Review and thank all the delegations for their cooperation and assistance.  
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