[ROGERS, Arkansas] – The World Trade Center Arkansas and the University of Arkansas were pleased to host the Honorable Victor Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, for a trade mission dedicated to strengthening economic relations between Northwest Arkansas (NWA), U.S.A. and Ontario, Canada.

Over the course of three days, Minister Fedeli, alongside a delegation of Ontario business leaders and representatives from various sectors, engaged in discussions with key stakeholders from across Northwest Arkansas and explored avenues for cooperation in sustainable development, innovation, and workforce development. "We’re building on Ontario and Arkansas’ long history as partners and friends by strengthening economic ties and helping businesses in both jurisdictions expand their reach,” said Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “This mission was an opportunity to connect with dynamic industry leaders and explore opportunities for expansion and collaboration. Together, we are building stronger economies, encouraging trade and supporting job creation on both sides of the border.

" The trade mission marked a significant milestone in the relationship between Northwest Arkansas and Ontario. Comprised of various events ranging from business forums, business-tobusiness networking sessions, industry-specific workshops and cultural exchanges, the trade mission centered upon exploring new avenues for bilateral trade, investment and collaboration. Delegates from both regions had the opportunity to identify synergies, share expertise and forge strategic partnerships that will further stimulate economic growth between the two parties. These engagements not only strengthened economic ties but fostered cultural understanding and appreciation between the people of Northwest Arkansas and Ontario.

"As a leading international trade promotion organization, the World Trade Center Arkansas is committed to facilitating global business opportunities for companies in our region,” said Denise Thomas, CEO of the World Trade Center Arkansas. “This collaboration with the Ontario Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade opens new avenues for economic growth, trade expansion, and knowledge exchange. We look forward to welcoming businesses from Ontario, Canada to Northwest Arkansas and vice versa."

Trade missions serve as crucial instruments in nurturing economic relationships between regions, creating a foundation for mutual prosperity and sustainable growth. In particular, this mission provided a platform to identify synergies, share expertise, and forge strategic partnerships that will further stimulate economic growth for both regions in years to come. By showcasing the World Trade Center Arkansas, the University of Arkansas, and the dynamic market in Northwest Arkansas to Ontario businesses, the mission facilitated opportunities for cross-border investment, boosted trade volumes, and enhanced competitiveness on a global scale for the two regions.

For media inquiries and acceleration requests, please contact: Jana Carter, Global Trade Director and Foreign Policy Advisor World Trade Center Arkansas [email protected] Vanessa De Matteis, Senior Communications Advisor and Press Secretary Minister’s Office [email protected] About the World Trade Center Arkansas: The mission of the World Trade Center Arkansas is to grow trade and increase Arkansas exports by connecting Arkansas businesses to the world through international trade services. The center is part of the University of Arkansas and serves as the official trade promotion arm for the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. For more information and valuable updates, please follow the center on Facebook and Twitter or subscribe to the World Trade Center Arkansas newsletter.