I will answer your question with regard to those sectors that would most benefit from a free trade agreement and the ones that would have the most to lose. The manufacturing sector exports a whole variety of products. It mainly exports auto parts and various related goods, the majority of which are produced in Ontario. It also exports mining equipment, because this is a sector that is active in Colombia. Large trucks are used to transport equipment.
Quebec and other provinces also export a lot of newspaper and other paper products. The pulp and paper industry is a major player in Quebec. It is therefore an important export market for that sector. Often, products such as copper wiring, various types of machinery and equipment are exported to Colombia in support of mining. A good many of our members do business in Colombia because their clients in the mining sector are established there. They therefore will export their products to Colombia to serve their customer base.
With regard to those sectors that are more at risk, there is good complementarity. We produce a lot of goods that the Colombians do not produce, and vice-versa. Colombia exports coffee and bananas. It would be nice if we could produce more such products here in Canada, but we do not have the right climate.
Canadian refined sugar producers have some concerns. These companies' business model was designed in order for them to be close to their clientele. I do not know if you have invited them to participate in these consultations, but I know that they have concerns all of their own. Colombia exports a lot of raw sugar. Is this sugar used in processing in Canada? I do not know, but I do know that Canadian sugar refineries have concerns whenever there is talk of a free trade agreement with a tropical country which, by definition, is close to the source of supply. That about summarizes my position with regard to the costs and benefits.
As for the defence of human rights and the fears in this area, the Colombian government is very aware that one of the main obstacles for Canadian businesses wishing to set up in the country relates to human rights and the safety of persons. Mr. Wright spoke of this. A free trade agreement is a step in the right direction, but more still must be done. Colombia has demonstrated that it is moving in the right direction. The country has a plan and wants to attract foreign investment, increase trade in order to develop its economy and show its people that trade is profitable and will help the country grow richer.
We must negotiate an agreement that will be beneficial for both economies, but we must not limit ourselves to that sole aspect. We must continue to work with the Colombians and move on to the next steps and establish a relationship that extends beyond trade with our partners in Colombia.