The Canadian and B.C. governments renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Chinese National Ministry of Housing and Urban Development today. The memorandum is an important part of developing and growing markets for high-quality, sustainably produced Canadian wood products.

The signing took place during the 2015 Forestry Asia Trade Mission led by Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson.

The Chinese Ministry of Housing and Urban and Rural Development is responsible for drafting policies, laws and development plans related to city, village and town planning and construction, as well as the building industry and municipal works. The ministry also sets national standards for construction projects, including directing housing construction and managing the real estate industry.

This agreement is a renewal of an existing MOU that was signed in March 2010 to explore how modern wood frame technology can enhance the energy efficiency of buildings and support the goal of reducing carbon emissions in China’s construction sector.

The agreement maintains the joint working committee on China’s Modern Wood Frame Construction Technology Project. In China, memoranda of understanding are the first steps toward increasing commercial activity.

Thomson also met with the China Society for Urban Studies to explore how the society, Forestry Innovation Investment Ltd. and Canada Wood could work together to promote “green” building techniques and sustainable urban development. The China Society for Urban Studies is a non-profit research institute affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Housing and Urban and Rural Development. It provides advice on initiatives such as eco-cities and green building technology.

Trade missions are a critical part of British Columbia’s strategy to diversify its international trading partners and secure new investment, propelling economic activity and job creation throughout the province.

Quotes:

Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson –

“A renewal of the memorandum of understanding with the national Ministry of Housing and Urban and Rural Development will help us continue to build momentum for wood frame construction in China.”

Minister of Natural Resources Canada Jim Carr –

“The Government of Canada is committed to working with our provincial and international partners to help address environmental challenges while supporting the development and expansion of international markets for Canada’s forest sector. The renewal of this agreement demonstrates how partners can work together to increase trade while addressing the challenges of climate change.”

Learn More:

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