NS makes play for Chinese market, aims at increasing trade ties

The Nova Scotia government is looking to increase its trade ties with China.

Premier Stephen McNeil announced a strategy Thursday that will focus on the province’s competitive strengths in areas such as seafood products and education.

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The strategy will also seek to strengthen relationships within the Chinese business community and support Nova Scotia businesses which already have access to China’s market.

China is currently Nova Scotia’s second largest trading partner after the U.S., with provincial exports totalling $420 million in 2015.

The figure lags well behind U.S. exports at $3.75 billion, but is an increase of more than 50 per cent over 2014.

Premier Stephen McNeil says the key to growing exports will be focusing on sectors that make products that Chinese consumers want to buy.