Prince Edward Island Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Allan Campbell has joined federal fisheries Minister Loyola Hearn, his counterparts from Atlantic Canada and federal government officials on an aquaculture trade mission to Chile. Included in the mission are Nova Scotia Minister Ron Chisolm, Newfoundland and Labrador Minister Tom Rideout and provincial representatives from New Brunswick and British Columbia. The mission is taking place between March 25 and March 29.
The mission will include participation at the Aqua Sur2008 International Aquaculture Show, Chile's largest trade show where more than 300 exhibitors will be featuring machinery, equipment and solutions for the aquaculture industry, with the latest technological developments on display. More than 900 companies from over 40 countries participate in the show.
Prince Edward Island companies, Charlottetown Metal Products and Atlantech Group, are part of a delegation of 15 businesses and organizations from Atlantic Canada.
“The show is huge and the business being carried out is brisk. I am pleased that both Charlottetown Metal Products and Atlantech Group have established a solid presence in the aquaculture industry in Chile,” said Mr. Campbell. “Atlantech which specializes in fish hatchery and engineering services has indicated it is negotiating a large business deal with a Chilean firm.”
Charlottetown Metal Products has established relationships with several processing companies and supplies crab and shellfish processing lines to the Chilean market.
Chile is the second largest producer of farmed salmon in the world behind Norway and has emerged as a major player in the world production of farmed mussels. “This Atlantic Canadian mission is a wonderful opportunity to see first hand the growth of aquaculture in Chile and to discuss the similarities and the differences facing each of our countries,” said Mr. Campbell.
The Canadian delegation will visit salmon farms, mussel farms, processing plants and research and development facilities while in Chile.
“The aquaculture industry continues to grow around the world,” said Mr. Campbell. “It is vitally important that the aquaculture industry in this province remains abreast of the latest technologies and practices, and strengthen its competitive position in international markets.”