P.E.I. keeping a close eye on NAFTA talks

With the U.S. being a major trading partner for Prince Edward Island, provincial Economic Development Minister Heath MacDonald says he is keeping a close eye on NAFTA talks, which start Wednesday.

• Canada's goals for 'progressive' NAFTA include labour and environmental standards, gender equality

In an emailed statement, MacDonald said he's spoken with Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland about how the deal could potentially affect P.E.I.

A report from the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council this week noted U.S. trade is critical for Atlantic Canada, with $19 billion worth of goods exported last year. Export growth on P.E.I. has been particularly strong, up 11 per cent in the first half of this year.

• P.E.I. 'on a tear' economically

MacDonald is looking for a focus on improving business relations with the U.S. and Mexico as well.

Freeland has released a list of 10 demands for a new North American Free Trade Agreement.

That includes things like making it easier for professionals to cross the border and cutting red tape.

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