This growth is expected to be supported by economic activity related to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games, but the global recovery and future trade is also heavily reliant on the performance of the world’s fastest growing economies, which are in the Asia Pacific region. British Columbia is well-positioned to take advantage of the expected recovery and expanding relations with the countries of the Asia Pacific region. I am pleased to share with you the Asia Pacific Initiative Report for 2008-09, which demonstrates the significant progress we have been making across the five strategic priority areas under
the Asia Pacific Initiative. The report can also be found electronically at http://www.tted.gov.bc.ca/APTI/Economies/Pages/default.aspx.
With our distinct advantages as Canada’s Pacific Gateway, British Columbia is embracing the promise of the Pacific Century. There are more companies being introduced to Asian markets, more foreign investment in British Columbia, and more International students and skilled and business immigrants arriving in the Province. We are expanding our world class infrastructure with 882 large-scale construction projects
planned or under way across the Province, for a record $189 million in investment.
British Columbia’s trade, investment and cultural relations with Asia Pacific countries continue to expand. We have doubled the number of Trade and Investment representatives in key Asian markets, and exceeded the targeted number of trade missions and expansion of key Asian business networks for 2008/09.
I appreciate your ongoing support for the Asia Pacific Initiative. The Asia Pacific region will be continue to be a major focus as we leverage the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games to increase British Columbia’s profile as a great place to live, work, study and invest.
Sincerely,
Iain Black
Minister
Small Business, Technology and Economic Development
British Columbia CANADA

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