I'm happy that the committee is going to Asia-Pacific, which is a very important region. It accounts for 14% of the global economy, or nearly $500 billion only in the region. I was going to say the CPTPP region, but the committee is well aware that we have also launched exploratory discussions with ASEAN, China and India, which I visited recently.
In my humble opinion, it would be worthwhile for the committee to look at non-tariff barriers. Around the world, we see that tariffs are being reduced, but we have to keep an eye on non-tariff barriers. Finally, what matters to Canadian business owners is having access to markets. I would like to say to the members of the committee that our department has launched an initiative that is sort of similar to an emergency response team to look into non-tariff barriers.
If Canadians note any non-tariff barriers, they can go to a website and report it to the department. Within 24 hours, the agents will know what the request or comment was. Then they will check in trade agreements what provisions apply and will notify the individual who made the request.
That is how we are trying eliminate non-tariff barriers under our agreements, but also to acquire the information we need to negotiate future agreements. We have to be very aware of non-tariff barriers. This is inspired by best practices around the world. I wanted to ensure, as did the deputy minister, to reduce non-tariff barriers and provide Canadian business owners with an opportunity to inform us, so that we can stand up for them in those areas.