Philippe Couillard wants to increase Quebec exports to Mexico

Quebec must increase its exports to ensure its economic development, and Mexico is a primemarket.

That's the message delivered by Premier Philippe Couillard on Sunday during a trade mission in Mexico City.

Quebec's exports to Mexico are growing, but it is far from enough, Couillard said. He wants to to increase them by at least 20 per cent each year.

The value of Quebec's exports to Mexico reached $1.2 billion in 2014, up 19.5 per cent compared to the previous year. For Quebec, Mexico has become the third largest trading partner.

In the coming years, Quebec intends to better position itself in this potential market of 120 million consumers.

Focus on creative industries

"We must increase Quebec's exports to Mexico and improve the quality of those exports, push towards creative products and value-added products," Couillard said.

"We had an increase of 20 per cent over three years. I hope that over the next three or four years, we'll have at least the same rate of increase," he added.

He added that with a population of only eightmillion, Quebec "must absolutely capitalize on exports" to ensure its development.

There are 600 Quebec-based companies doing business in Mexico.

Part of his trip is also diplomatic.

On Monday he will meet Mexican President Enrique Pea Nieto for anopportunity to formalize the partnership agreements between the two jurisdictions.

Other meetings are planned, including with the head of government of the Federal District of Mexico City, Miguel Angel Mancera, Secretary of Economy Ildefonso Guajardo Villarreal, and with senators.

He will also participate in a forum on the animation industry, video games and multimedia.

Quebec has had a delegation in Mexico City for the past 35 years.