Premier Wade MacLauchlan and Economic Development and Tourism Minister Heath MacDonald have hosted a series of meetings with successful business, economic and community leaders this summer as part of government’s commitment to aggressively promote Prince Edward Island’s advantages through Sales Force PEI.

“In order to grow our economy and generate wealth and jobs, Prince Edward Island must reduce the trade imbalance, the amount by which our imports of goods and services exceeds our exports,” said the Premier. “Through Sales Force PEI we will work in a coordinated effort with a network of business leaders and successful Islanders to identify opportunities for growth.”

In 2014, for the first time ever, Prince Edward Island international exports exceeded $1 billion. The province is on track to exceed that mark this year as June was another record month. The value of international exports of goods expanded by nearly 20 per cent in 2014 and data from the first five months of 2015 show continued growth of 6.2 per cent.

The province’s manufacturing sector had a strong performance last year increasing by 10.1 per cent and year-to-date data is showing continued strength increasing by 6.8 per cent.

Premier MacLauchlan pointed to the recently-announced Food Island Partnership an example of how collaboration can build an integrated brand and enhance sales.

Several meetings have taken place over the summer and additional meetings are planned.

Scott Ferris will serve as Director of Sales Force PEI. Ferris has a strong background in trade and business development, having worked as Manager of Export Development for PEI Business Development Inc, Director of Business Development for the Forum for International Trade Training and the Director of Marketing and Membership with the Royal Canadian Legion.

“One of our new government’s primary goals is to expand the provincial economy, increase exports and help create new jobs for Islanders,” said Minister MacDonald. “Scott will be a valuable addition to the team as we attract new companies, encourage them to prosper, and make the province a great place to do business.”