I represent the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Dolbeau-Mistassini.
Our city has about 15,000 residents and is situated in an RCM with a population of 25,000. We have more small businesses than medium and large ones. Very few of those small businesses export abroad and they have few, if any, levers with which to develop international markets. Only the region's major companies, like Résolu and Rio Tinto, for example, can, and have the means to do so.
Much as my colleague from the Chamber of Commerce was saying earlier, market development must be easier and small businesses must be provided with resources tailored to their own needs. They must also be given the tools they need for their initiatives, as can be done for medium and large companies.
Thank you.