FIHAV 2009 Canada and Cuba Move Closer Economically

The presence of almost 60 Canadian companies during the recently concluded 27th International Havana Trade Fair (FIHAV) reflects the importance Canada confers on trade with Cuba; it is the fourth trade partner of the island.

With more than 780 square metres in exhibition space, the Canadian pavilion hosted 29 stands, with 14 companies showcasing their products for the first time in Cuba.

One event of note was the presence of Marc Whittingham, president of the Canadian Commercial Corporation in Ottawa, Ontario. The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) is a Crown corporation of the Government of Canada which acts as Canada's international contracting and procurement agency. Since the early 1990s, CCC has established close ties with Cuba, delivering equipment, products and services, all mainly related to the sugar industry and tourism.

During this exhibit Cubaplus magazine presented its 11th issue dedicated to