Houston to lead 5-day trade mission to Denmark
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston is embarking on a five-day trade mission to Denmark, along with a delegation from the provincial government. The group will be traveling to Copenhagen on Saturday to meet with both new and existing trade partners in sectors such as health care, energy, and seafood.
One of the highlights of the trip will be Houston and Energy Minister Trevor Boudreau’s attendance at WindEurope’s annual event from April 8-10. Denmark has set a goal to achieve completely fossil-fuel-free electricity by 2035, with a particular focus on hydrogen and wind energy. This aligns well with Nova Scotia’s own efforts to transition towards cleaner energy sources.
Accompanying Boudreau, the premier’s delegation includes key figures such as his chief of staff and lawyer, Nicole LaFosse Parker; executive deputy minister Tracey Taweel; and executive director of international relations Mike McMurrary. Together, they will engage in discussions and negotiations to strengthen trade relations between Nova Scotia and Denmark.
This trade mission holds particular significance at a time when Nova Scotia, like many other regions globally, is grappling with tariffs imposed by the United States government. In addition to this, Nova Scotia also faces challenges from tariffs imposed by China, particularly on seafood exports. Seafood is a vital industry for the province, making these trade negotiations all the more crucial.
In a proactive move, Houston’s government recently passed legislation with bipartisan support to address interprovincial trade barriers. This legislation aims to facilitate smoother trade relations with other provinces and territories, provided they reciprocate with similar legislation.
The trade mission to Denmark presents a valuable opportunity for Nova Scotia to strengthen its economic ties and explore new avenues for collaboration. By leveraging Denmark’s expertise in renewable energy and other sectors, Nova Scotia can further its own goals towards sustainable development. This mission underscores the province’s commitment to fostering international partnerships and driving economic growth.
