Mr. Speaker, on March 8 the Ontario Chapter of Women in International Trade was launched. Canada joined a worldwide network that aims to significantly increase international trade opportunities for Canadian businesswomen.
The Organization of Women in International Trade is comprised of over 5,000 members in countries around the world. With women-owned businesses significantly under-represented in the global trade arena, this organization seeks to change the situation by providing global business contacts, networking and educational opportunities.
The activities of the Ontario chapter are presently focused on electronic commerce. Women can now level the playing field by accessing the Internet and making contact, marketing or selling their products and services worldwide. With this technology, some of the barriers women often face, such as the inability to travel extensively due to family commitments or fears for their security, now disappear.
Women in International Trade of Ontario hopes to play a valuable role in assisting women exporters reach aggressive growth targets through skill enhancement seminars, networking opportunities, and by providing practical tips, resources and global contacts to foster Internet marketing.